Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

52 other cultivars

perennial

Elsa Sass Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Elsa Sass'

Same species

Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

52 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Central and Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Elsa Sass is known for its lush, large flowers and strong stems. This cultivar produces large, fragrant, fully double, gardenia-shaped blooms of pure white. It is a late-season bloomer with strong stems that hold the heavy flowers well.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora Elsa Sass offers large, fragrant blooms that add elegance and fragrance to garden borders and floral arrangements.

Its robust foliage provides ground cover and helps suppress weeds.

Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck peony roots 2 inches deep in well-drained soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Support large blooms with stakes if necessary, especially in windy areas.
Prune back dead foliage in late fall after the first frost.

Pro Tip

Plant peonies in full sun for best flowering and well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Support heavy blooms with stakes
Fertilize in early spring and mid-summer
Prune dead foliage in late fall

Don't

Avoid planting in poorly-drained soil ❌
Don’t disturb roots during the growing season
Never over-fertilize, which can cause weak stems
Avoid pruning in late winter or early spring

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 borderFragrant cut flower displayClassic cottage garden accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Hostas Daylilies Foxgloves

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Elsa Sass Peony questions

What zones can Elsa Sass Peony grow in?

Elsa Sass 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 Elsa Sass Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Elsa Sass Peony bloom?

Elsa Sass 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 Elsa Sass Peony need full sun?

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