What do you know about peony?
What it is
Peony is a type of flowering plant that’s super popular in gardens and flower arrangements all over the world. It belongs to its own little plant family and it’s actually the only genus in that family.
Most peonies are either perennial herbs (plants that come back every year from the same roots) or woody shrubs — and together they create a huge variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.
How it looks
Peonies usually grow from fleshy roots and have leaves that might be divided into segments. The flowers are big and showy, with petals that range from white and pink to deep red — and sometimes even yellow or multi-colored depending on the variety.
A typical plant can reach up to about a meter tall, though some shrubs can be taller. They bloom in late spring to early summer, which is when gardeners especially love them.
Where it grows
Peonies are native to temperate parts of Europe, Asia, and western North America. They enjoy spots with good sun and well-drained soil, although they can handle some shade. In some places, several species have been introduced from elsewhere because people grow them for decoration.
What are its varieties
There are many species and cultivated varieties of peonies. Some are simple with one row of petals, others are double blooms that look super lush and full. Gardeners and plant collectors have created thousands of cultivars with different bloom styles, colors, and plant shapes.
What it is used for
The flowers are especially valued for:
- how impressive they look in beds and borders
- long-lasting blooms in spring and early summer
- cut bouquets that make great showpieces indoors
Peony petals aren’t just pretty — in some cultures they’ve been used in:
- traditional herbal remedies
- teas and drinks
- decorative petal water
What is its history
Peonies have been growing near people for over 2,000 years. Ancient Chinese plant lovers cultivated them as ornamental plants, and in China a peony is even seen as a symbol of love and happiness.
The name Paeonia itself goes way back — it comes from a character named Peon in Greek myth. According to the old story, Peon was turned into the flower by the gods as a kind of honor after using it to heal others.