Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

52 other cultivars

perennial

Mother's Choice Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Mother'

Same species

Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

52 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Large, showy flowers with rich fragrance. Known for its strong stems and large blooms, ideal for cut flower arrangements.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora Mother offers stunning, fragrant blooms that enhance garden aesthetics and provide sensory delight.

Provides cut flowers for indoor arrangements, lasting up to two weeks.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, enriching local biodiversity.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil in early spring.
Water deeply after planting to establish roots.
Mist cuttings in a humid environment for 6 weeks to root.
Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter for healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Plant peonies in a sunny spot with good air circulation for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
Prune after flowering to shape the plant

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t disturb established roots in late summer
Never plant in poorly drained soil

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

Elegant perennial border with fragrant bloomsShaded woodland garden featureCottage garden centerpiece

Companion Plants

Lavender Foxglove Salvia Hosta Daylilies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mother's Choice Peony questions

What zones can Mother's Choice Peony grow in?

Mother's Choice 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 Mother's Choice Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Mother's Choice Peony bloom?

Mother's Choice 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 Mother's Choice Peony need full sun?

Mother's Choice Peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.