What Are the Different Types of Peony Plant

Peonies are one of the most beloved flowers in the world, known for their large, showy blooms and fragrant scent. With over 30 different species and countless cultivars, peonies come in a variety of colors, sizes, and forms. In this article, we will explore the different types of peony plants and discover their unique characteristics.

Herbaceous Peonies

Herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora) are the most common type of peony plant found in gardens and floral arrangements. These peonies are known for their large, lush blooms and strong fragrance. They have a bushy growth habit and can reach heights of 2 to 4 feet. Herbaceous peonies die back to the ground in winter and regrow from underground stems called rhizomes in spring.

There are numerous cultivars of herbaceous peonies, each with its own distinct characteristics. Some popular cultivars include:

1. Sarah Bernhardt: This is one of the most famous herbaceous peonies, featuring double pink flowers with a sweet scent.
2. Bowl of Beauty: As the name suggests, this cultivar has large, bowl-shaped flowers in shades of pink with a creamy center.
3. Festiva Maxima: This classic variety has pure white petals with crimson flecks in the center, creating a stunning contrast.
4. Karl Rosenfield: Known for its deep red double flowers, Karl Rosenfield is a popular choice among gardeners.
5. Coral Charm: This unique cultivar starts as coral-pink buds that open to reveal beautiful coral-peach flowers.

Tree Peonies

Tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa) are a woody shrub-like peony species native to China and Japan. These peonies have a more upright growth habit and can reach heights of up to 6 feet. Tree peonies have larger, more intricate flowers compared to herbaceous peonies and come in a wide range of colors, including shades of pink, purple, yellow, and white.

The main difference between tree peonies and herbaceous peonies is that tree peonies do not die back to the ground in winter. Instead, they retain their woody stems year-round. This makes them a great choice for creating structure and interest in the garden during the colder months.

Some popular cultivars of tree peonies include:

1. Hanakisoi: This stunning variety features large, semi-double pink flowers with dark pink streaks.
2. Shimanishiki: Known for its unique striped petals, Shimanishiki has white flowers with bright pink stripes.
3. High Noon: As the name suggests, this tree peony cultivar has beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in early summer.
4. Renkaku: Renkaku is a popular choice for its striking deep purple flowers and contrasting yellow stamens.
5. Taiyo: With its vibrant orange-red flowers, Taiyo adds a splash of color to any garden.

Intersectional Peonies

Intersectional peonies, also known as Itoh peonies, are a hybrid cross between herbaceous and tree peonies. They were first created by Japanese breeder Toichi Itoh in the 1940s but gained popularity in recent years. Intersectional peonies combine the best traits of both parent species – the large, intricate flowers of tree peonies and the easy care and herbaceous habit of herbaceous peonies.

These peonies have a compact growth habit and can reach heights of 2 to 3 feet. They typically bloom for a longer period than herbaceous peonies, with some varieties producing flowers for up to six weeks. Intersectional peonies come in a range of colors, including shades of yellow, pink, and red.

Some popular cultivars of intersectional peonies include:

1. Bartzella: This award-winning cultivar has large, semi-double flowers that start as golden-yellow buds and open to reveal pale yellow petals with a touch of red at the center.
2. Garden Treasure: Known for its vibrant yellow flowers, Garden Treasure is a reliable bloomer and adds a pop of color to any garden.
3. Julia Rose: This stunning variety has large, deep pink flowers with ruffled petals and a sweet fragrance.
4. First Arrival: With its soft pink petals and contrasting yellow stamens, First Arrival is a beautiful addition to any garden or floral arrangement.
5. Sonoma YeDo: This unique intersectional peony features white flowers with dark magenta flecks and a sweet fragrance.

Conclusion

Peonies are truly diverse and offer a wide range of options for gardeners and flower enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the classic charm of herbaceous peonies, the architectural beauty of tree peonies, or the hybrid vigor of intersectional peonies, there is a peony plant for every taste and garden style. Consider adding these stunning flowers to your garden and enjoy their beauty year after year.