Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony

52 other cultivars

perennial

Prairie Charm Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Prairie Charm'

The Story

Plant Bio

An Itoh (Intersectional) peony, a hybrid between herbaceous and tree peonies. Features large, semi-double to double, soft yellow flowers with red-purple flares at the petal bases. Borne on strong stems that do not require staking.

As an Itoh hybrid, it combines the large flowers and strong stems of tree peonies with the herbaceous growth habit and vigor of garden peonies. The flowers are a unique soft yellow with dramatic red flares.

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora Prairie Charm offers stunning, fragrant blooms that enhance garden aesthetics and attract pollinators.

Its robust roots provide ground cover and soil stabilization.

Supports beneficial insects and pollinators, contributing to garden biodiversity.

SpeciesPaeonia lactifloraChinese Peony

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30"

Width

30"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

10-20 years

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested.

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a well-drained, fertile soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Tuck seeds or divide mature plants in early fall for best propagation.
Plant roots 2 inches deep and space 24 inches apart for optimal growth.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during the growing season.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote flowering.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant peonies in full sun for the best blooms and strong stems.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
Apply mulch annually to protect roots
Support tall flower stems with stakes if needed
Remove spent blooms to encourage new growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t disturb the roots in late summer or fall
Never fertilize with high nitrogen in late season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vanilla‑scented borderPerennial flower bed centerpieceFragrant cut flower display

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Coreopsis Nepeta Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Prairie Charm Peony questions

What zones can Prairie Charm Peony grow in?

Prairie Charm 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 Prairie Charm Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Prairie Charm Peony bloom?

Prairie Charm 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 Prairie Charm Peony need full sun?

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