More than simply looking fabulous and standing the test of time, though, the peony is also full of meaning. Generally symbolic of love, honor, happiness wealth, romance, and beauty, the peony is traditionally given on special occasions as an expression of goodwill, best wishes, and joy.

Are peonies perennials or annuals?

Peonies are perennials that come back every year to take your breath away. In fact, the plants may live longer than you do—some have been known to thrive for at least 100 years.

Do peonies need direct sunlight?

Herbaceous peonies prefer at least 8 hours of full sun. They will grow in partial shade, but they will not flower as readily. The only expections are some of the infrequently grown Asian woodland species, which require part shade.

Are peonies difficult to grow?

Peonies are easy to grow and maintain with little care. They bloom in late spring or early in summer, delighting all that behold with their wondrous floral display. Peony blooms are a staple to spring time are a popular cut flower.

What position do peonies like?

Plant peonies in a rich but well-drained soil in a position of full sun. Avoid planting these often expensive plants in a waterlogged soil. The majority of herbaceous peonies prefer a neutral or slightly alkaline soil. Tree peonies need a sheltered position and are more tolerant of acid soils.

Why are peonies special?

A peony represents wealth and honor. It also embody romance and love, and are regarded as the omen of good fortune and happy marriage. They are the 12th wedding anniversary flower. A peony is one plant you will enjoy for a long time.

How many years does it take for a peony to bloom?

Set them in place in early spring so stems can grow through the grid. Peonies rarely bloom the first year after planting. It often takes three years before you see an abundant display of flowers. But once the plants do start blooming, you can look forward to a lifetime of beautiful flowers.

How tall do peonies get?

3 to 4 feet tall
Depending on the variety, most peonies grow 3 to 4 feet tall. A mature plant can easily measure up to 3 feet across, so it’s important to allow room for them to fill out. Surrounding peonies with a support cage will help keep the heavy flowers from sprawling when they get wet.

Do peony bushes bloom all summer?

Peonies bloom in late spring – early summer, starting in April and through the months of May and June. Therefore, to fill your garden with continuously blooming peonies throughout the season to up to 6 weeks, you may plan to plant a variety of cultivars, from Very Early- to Very Late season bloomers.

Do peonies like sun or shade?

Peonies are extremely hardy and adaptable. They grow best in full sun; you can expect fewer flowers in light shade but the blooms will last longer. Single flowered cultivars seem to do better in shade than doubles. Peonies will grow in most soils provided they are not too wet in the winter.

What to do with peonies after they bloom?

How to Care for Peonies After Blooming. This prevents the peony from setting seeds and encourages further blooming. Water peonies weekly the first spring and summer they are planted. Keep soil moist but not soaking wet thereafter. Weed the beds thoroughly to prevent disease and choking of the peony roots.

Where to buy peonies locally?

Where to Buy Peonies Peony bushes can be found at your local nursery or hardware stores. If you want well established flowers with abundant blooms, see if someone has a mature bush you can transplant for maximum blooms. I prefer to work with an established plant over bulbs in Missouri.

When to plant peonies?

Plant peonies in the fall: in late September and October in most of the U.S.,and even later in the fall in Zones 7 and 8.