Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony

52 other cultivars

perennial

Peter Brand Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Peter Brand'

The Story

Plant Bio

Classic peony with large, soft pink flowers and lush, decorative foliage.

Notable for its strong stems that hold blooms upright, less prone to flopping.

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora Peter Brand offers lush, fragrant blooms that elevate garden aesthetics and attract pollinators, making it a centerpiece in perennial beds.

Its robust foliage provides ground cover and soil stabilization, while the cut flowers add fragrance indoors.

Supports bees and butterflies, contributing to garden biodiversity.

SpeciesPaeonia lactifloraChinese Peony

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36"

Width

30"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

15-20 years

Native To

Asia and Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Plant tubers in fall, 2-3 inches deep, in a sunny location.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during active growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy blooms.
Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with rich, well-draining soil for vibrant blooms and vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry spells 💧
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth
Fertilize annually with organic compost for best blooms
Provide staking for tall cultivars to prevent flopping

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t disturb the roots when dividing
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season, which can lead to weak growth
Never plant in poorly drained areas
Avoid pruning in late fall or winter

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, showy flowersSoftening a garden edge with lush foliageCreating a romantic cottage garden display

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia HostaFerns Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Peter Brand Peony questions

What zones can Peter Brand Peony grow in?

Peter Brand Peony is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Peter Brand Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Peter Brand Peony bloom?

Peter Brand 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 Peter Brand Peony need full sun?

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