Paeonia lactiflora 'Duchess de Nemours'
perennial

Duchess de Nemours Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Duchess de Nemours'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

34 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Central and Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

The Story

Plant Bio

A classic peony renowned for its large, fragrant, white blooms. This cultivar has a robust form with strong stems. Known for its exceptional flower quality and ability to withstand rain without flopping.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDuchess de Nemours peony offers large, fragrant white blossoms, perfect for adding elegance to gardens and floral arrangements.
Practical UsesProvides a reliable, low-maintenance perennial with minimal care once established.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees with its nectar-rich flowers in late spring.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a well-drained, fertile soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH.
  2. Plant bare-root peonies in early spring or fall, spacing 3-4 feet apart.
  3. Tuck the eyes of the root 1-2 inches below soil level in spring.
  4. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
  5. Mulch with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds, refresh annually.
  6. Fertilize with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring and after flowering.

Pro Tip

Plant peonies with their eyes no more than 1-2 inches below soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Support tall varieties with stakes to prevent flopping
  • Remove spent flowers to encourage vigorous growth
  • Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
  • Divide mature clumps every 10 years to rejuvenate

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t plant too shallow or too deep
  • Refrain from disturbing roots during flowering
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage over blooms
  • Never cut back the foliage in fall, wait until spring

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Plant
Prune
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant perennial border with lush foliageFragrant cut flower in flower arrangementsClassic cottage garden centerpiece

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Hosta Astilbe Delphinium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Duchess de Nemours Peony questions

What zones can Duchess de Nemours Peony grow in?

Duchess de Nemours Peony is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Duchess de Nemours Peony deer resistant?

Yes β€” Duchess de Nemours Peony is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Duchess de Nemours Peony bloom?

Duchess de Nemours Peony typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Duchess de Nemours Peony need full sun?

Duchess de Nemours Peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Duchess de Nemours Peony with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play