Garden Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Gardenia'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
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
Decades with proper care
Native To
Central and Eastern Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to pets if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Peony 'Gardenia' is known for its fragrant, double white blooms and lush green foliage, making it a popular choice for gardens. This cultivar is prized for its particularly large and dense flower heads, resembling the petals of a gardenia.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds in well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are large enough to handle, usually after 1–2 years.
- Divide mature plants in early spring or fall to promote healthy growth.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant
- Monitor for pests and treat promptly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Never plant in poorly drained soil
- Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage over flowers
- Don’t disturb roots unnecessarily
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| 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
Garden Peony questions
What zones can Garden Peony grow in?
Garden 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 Garden Peony deer resistant?
Yes — Garden Peony is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Garden Peony bloom?
Garden 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 Garden Peony need full sun?
Garden 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
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Garden 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.
