Species · GBIF taxon 3083486
Paeonia lactiflora
paeonia lactifloraAlso known as Chinese Peony, Garden Peony, White Peony, Common Garden Peony
Chinese peonies burst into spectacular bloom in late spring, flaunting massive, fragrant blossoms that range from pure white to deep pink and red. These hardy herbaceous perennials form lush, shrub-like mounds of glossy, deeply lobed foliage that remains attractive long after the flowers fade. Highly revered in traditional Asian culture and modern gardens alike, they can thrive in the same spot for decades with minimal intervention.
FloweringPerennialFragrant
1 / 7- diet
- Sunlight, water, and nutrient-rich soil
- family
- Paeoniaceae
- threats
- Over-collection of wild specimens and habitat degradation
- life Span
- 50 years or more
NE
Contains paeonol, which is toxic to dogs and cats; keep pets from chewing the foliage or roots.
Contains the toxin paeonol, which causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in dogs, cats, and horses.
Grow in areas inaccessible to curious pets and do not ingest any part of the plant.- Support heavy blooms: Stake the stems early in spring to prevent heavy double flowers from flopping.
- Watch for ants: Do not spray ants crawling on the buds, as they harmlessly feed on sugary nectar.
- Planting depth: Ensure the pink growth buds or eyes are buried no deeper than two inches.