Shirley Temple Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
34 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Decades with proper care
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' is known for its large, fragrant, double blooms that are creamy white to soft pink. This cultivar is notable for its strong stems that hold the heavy flowers upright and its excellent cut flower quality.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
- Plant peony roots in early fall or spring, about 2-3 inches deep.
- Ensure the crown is just below soil level for proper growth.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily for optimal flowering.
Pro Tip
Plant peonies with their eyes (buds) no more than 2 inches below soil for best bloom development.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Stake tall varieties to prevent flopping
- Remove spent blooms to encourage new growth
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Don't
- Don’t waterlog the soil ❌
- Avoid planting too deep, which can inhibit blooming
- Do not disturb roots during the growing season
- Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can cause lush foliage at the expense of flowers
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| 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
Shirley Temple Peony questions
What zones can Shirley Temple Peony grow in?
Shirley Temple 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 Shirley Temple Peony deer resistant?
Yes — Shirley Temple Peony is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Shirley Temple Peony bloom?
Shirley Temple Peony typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Shirley Temple Peony need full sun?
Shirley Temple Peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Paeonia to compare
Sarah Bernhardt Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt'
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'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Shirley Temple 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.
