The Story
Plant Bio
Paeonia suffruticosa 'Shimanishiki' is a deciduous shrub known for its large, showy, double peony-like flowers and woody stems, with lush foliage that provides a lush backdrop in late spring and early summer.
This cultivar is distinguished by its uniquely ruffled, pastel pink and white bi-colored blossoms that create a striking display, and its robust, drought-tolerant habit.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Decades
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 dormant roots in well-draining soil in early fall.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Prune dead or damaged stems after flowering.
- Ensure ample sunlight for best blooms.
Pro Tip
Plant in rich, well-draining soil with full sun for optimal flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 💧
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Prune after flowering to shape the shrub
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not prune in late fall or winter
- Never plant in poorly drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Peony Shimanishiki questions
What zones can Peony Shimanishiki grow in?
Peony Shimanishiki 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 Peony Shimanishiki deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Peony Shimanishiki, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Peony Shimanishiki bloom?
Peony Shimanishiki 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 Peony Shimanishiki need full sun?
Peony Shimanishiki 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 suffruticosa 'Duchesse de Lorraine'
Tibetan Tree Peony
Paeonia deltoidea
Daydream Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Daydream'
Philomele Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Philomele'
Festiva Maxima Peony Chinese Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Festiva Maxima'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Peony Shimanishiki 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.