Paeonia lactiflora 'Karl Rosenfield'
perennial

Karl Rosenfield Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Karl Rosenfield'

Same species

Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

52 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial

Native To

Asia, Europe

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Karl Rosenfield is known for its large, showy red flowers and strong, erect stems. This cultivar is especially noted for its deep crimson petals and an exceptional ability to thrive in loamy soils.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesPaeonia lactiflora Karl Rosenfield provides stunning, fragrant red blooms that enhance garden beauty and scent.
Practical UsesIts robust growth makes it a reliable cut flower, bringing elegance indoors.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings in well-drained soil in early spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer.
  4. Prune dead or damaged stems after flowering for healthy growth.
  5. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide mature plants in fall or early spring for propagation.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
  • Apply organic compost annually
  • Prune after flowering to shape and promote growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t disturb roots during flowering
  • Refrain from fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Plant
Stake
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant perennial borderFragrant flower bedCut flower arrangements

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Echinacea Coreopsis Rudbeckia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Karl Rosenfield Peony questions

What zones can Karl Rosenfield Peony grow in?

Karl Rosenfield 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 Karl Rosenfield Peony deer resistant?

Yes — Karl Rosenfield Peony is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Karl Rosenfield Peony bloom?

Karl Rosenfield Peony typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Karl Rosenfield Peony need full sun?

Karl Rosenfield Peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Karl Rosenfield 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.