Bold, colorful, and fragrant, these blooms are popular around the world, and for good reasons.
They make excellent cut flowers that last a week or more in a vase.
No wonder peonies are so belovedbut there’s much more to them than you might realize.
Credit: Karla Conrad
The Peony Has Centuries of History
Peonies are native to Asia, Europe, and Western North America.
The Tang Dynasty of China began breeding peonies in the imperial courts in the 7th century BCE.
Their popularity spread to Japan in the early 11th century and France and England in the 18th century.
‘Sarah Bernhardt’ is a favorite double variety.Credit: Janet Mesic Mackie
Then, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, they began gaining popularity in the U.S.
The peony even became the state flower of Indiana in 1957, replacing thezinniafor the honor.
Most types are happiest in full sun, but sometree peoniesdo best in part shade.
When Asclepius became murderously jealous of his pupil, Zeus saved Paeon by turning him into a peony flower.
Peonies also have been used in European herbal medicine as a remedy for bladder and kidney problems.
They represent romance and love and are considered a good omen of a happy marriage.
They’re also the traditional flower for 12th wedding anniversaries.
Interestingly, during the Victorian Era,peony flowersrepresented shame and shyness.
That means they’re available from June to September during the prime wedding season.
If you choose to plant peonies, keep this in mind:These amazing perennials might outlive you!
