Peony (Paeony)
Peonies have been cultivated for more than 2,000 years, and are native
to Asia, southern Europe and the western states of North America. The plants
are three- to four-feet tall with a round shape, bearing lustrous, dark
green foliage. Peony flowers are large and fragrant, smelling rather like
roses, often blooming in late May and early June in northern climes. Early,
mid-season and late blooming cultivars are available. In autumn, the foliage
often takes on a reddish-maroon color.
The six-inch diameter blooms come in many colors including white, pink,
red, maroon, yellow and bicolor. Peonies are classified into five types:
single flower or Chinese, Japanese, anemone, semi-double and double. These
groups are distinguished by the number of petals and the extent to which
the stamens are petal-like.
Peonies do best in full sun or in light shade. They prefer rich, loamy,
well-drained soil but will tolerate and bloom in heavier clay soils. Plant
peonies about four feet apart due to their large mature size. Stake peonies
early in the growing season since the flowers are very heavy and hold water,
which causes them to flop over. Fertilize in the spring and mulch in the
winter for best growth.
Peonies live for many years in a landscape and for optimal flowering
should be placed in permanent locations. If a peony fails to bloom after
three years in the same location, it is most likely due to being planted
too deeply. When planting, roots should be placed no more than one inch
below the soil surface. Ants are attracted to the nectar on the buds, but
are not necessary for the flowers to open. Peonies occasionally have problems
with spider mites and powdery mildew in Colorado.
More information at Wikipedia
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