Sarah Bernhardt Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
50+ years
Native To
Central and Eastern Asia
Toxicity
Mildly toxic to pets if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt' is known for its large, fragrant blossoms and strong stems. It is a popular choice for traditional gardens. This cultivar is famous for its large, double blooms that can reach up to 10 inches in diameter, making it a standout in any garden.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-drained, fertile soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH.
- Plant bare-root peonies in early spring or fall, spacing 3-4 feet apart.
- Position the crown 1-2 inches below soil surface in spring.
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist during establishment.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after blooming.
Pro Tip
Plant peonies with their eyes no more than 1-2 inches below soil for best flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
- Support heavy blooms to prevent flopping
Don't
- Avoid planting too deep ❌
- Don’t overwater in winter ❌
- Refrain from disturbing roots during bloom
- Don’t ignore pest signs
- Avoid excessive fertilizing which can promote foliage over flowers
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Stake | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Sarah Bernhardt Peony questions
What zones can Sarah Bernhardt Peony grow in?
Sarah Bernhardt 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 Sarah Bernhardt Peony deer resistant?
Yes — Sarah Bernhardt Peony is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Sarah Bernhardt Peony bloom?
Sarah Bernhardt Peony typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Sarah Bernhardt Peony need full sun?
Sarah Bernhardt Peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Paeonia to compare
Tree Peony 'Duchesse de Lorraine'
Paeonia x suffruticosa 'Duchesse de Lorraine'
Tibetan Tree Peony
Paeonia deltoidea
Daydream Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Daydream'
Festiva Maxima Peony Chinese Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Festiva Maxima'
Rozella Peony
Paeonia officinalis 'Rozella'
Philomele Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Philomele'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Sarah Bernhardt 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.
