Paeonia lactiflora 'The Fawn'
perennial

The Fawn Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'The Fawn'

The Story

Plant Bio

The Fawn is a compact peony known for its delicate, pink flowers and lush foliage. It has strong stems that support its blooms well.

This cultivar is valued for its unique, soft pink color and resistance to fading in the sun.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesPeonies provide stunning, fragrant flowers that enhance garden aesthetics and add a touch of elegance to any landscape.
Practical UsesTheir sturdy stems and lush foliage can act as natural privacy screens or border plants.
Ecological BenefitsPeonies attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesPaeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

15-20 years

Native To

Asia and Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or division pieces into well-drained soil in early spring.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
  3. Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after blooming.
  5. Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter for healthy growth.
  6. Support tall varieties with stakes to prevent flopping.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply 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 roots during the growing season
  • Never fertilize with high-nitrogen fertilizers after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant borderShady woodland edgePerennial garden centerpiece

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Lupine Coral Bells Bleeding Heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

The Fawn Peony questions

What zones can The Fawn Peony grow in?

The Fawn Peony is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is The Fawn Peony deer resistant?

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

When does The Fawn Peony bloom?

The Fawn 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 The Fawn Peony need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow The Fawn 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.