Peonies are celebrated for their lush blooms and enchanting fragrance, making them a favorite choice among flower enthusiasts. Selecting the right peonies can transform any arrangement into a stunning centerpiece. Their diverse colors and shapes not only enhance beauty but also provide lasting life to cut flower displays.
This article explores the best varieties of peonies suited for cutting. From classic favorites to unique hybrids, readers can discover options that fit their aesthetic preferences and seasonal availability. Each selection showcases the versatility and charm of peonies, ensuring a delightful addition to any floral arrangement.
1) Sarah Bernhardt
Sarah Bernhardt is a classic peony renowned for its large, fragrant blooms. Each flower can reach up to eight inches across, showcasing a delicate pink hue that deepens with maturity.
This variety features a lush, full form, displaying numerous petals that give it a romantic appearance. Its robust stems support the heavy blooms, making it ideal for cut flower arrangements.
Sarah Bernhardt blooms in late spring to early summer, providing an impressive vase life. With proper care, cut stems can last up to a week or more, making it a favorite among florists.
In the garden, it thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. This peony also exhibits good disease resistance, ensuring a healthy growth cycle.
Overall, Sarah Bernhardt is a top choice for those seeking beauty and longevity in floral displays. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate flower enthusiasts.
2) Coral Charm
Coral Charm is a well-regarded peony variety, known for its striking blooms. The flowers open in a brilliant coral hue, transitioning to soft peach as they mature. This appealing color change adds visual interest to arrangements.
The plant typically grows to about 24 to 36 inches tall. It features sturdy stems that support large, full blooms. Coral Charm is particularly admired for its strong fragrance, making it a favorite for cut flower enthusiasts.
Blooming in late spring to early summer, this peony offers great timing for garden displays. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun for optimal growth. Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells.
Coral Charm’s blooms can last up to a week in a vase, enhancing their value for floral arrangements. The variety is often used in wedding bouquets and special occasions. This peony brings both beauty and a lovely scent to any floral display.
3) Duchesse de Nemours
Duchesse de Nemours is a classic peony recognized for its elegance and beauty. Known for its large, fragrant blooms, it features soft white petals that often have a hint of pale yellow at the center.
This variety can grow up to three feet tall, making it suitable for cut flower arrangements. The sturdy stems support the heavy blooms, ensuring that they hold up well in vases.
Duchesse de Nemours typically blooms in late spring to early summer, providing stunning displays during this season. As a late-season bloomer, it complements other peonies, extending the peony flowering period.
It thrives in well-drained soil and requires full sunlight for optimal growth. This peony is relatively hardy and can withstand various environmental conditions, which makes it a reliable choice for gardens.
With proper care, Duchesse de Nemours can produce abundant flowers for cutting. Its timeless beauty and delightful fragrance make it a favored choice among florists and garden enthusiasts alike.
4) Karl Rosenfield
Karl Rosenfield is a classic peony variety known for its vibrant red blooms. This herbaceous peony produces large, double blossoms that can reach up to six inches across.
It typically flowers in late spring to early summer, making it a popular choice for cut flower arrangements. The rich color and full petals create a striking display in any bouquet.
In addition to its beauty, Karl Rosenfield is also valued for its fragrance. The sweet scent adds an extra layer of appeal when used in floral designs.
This variety thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow to heights of 30 to 36 inches, providing a robust presence in gardens or arrangements.
Karl Rosenfield is relatively low-maintenance and can last several years in the garden. Pruning it back in the fall helps to promote healthy growth for the following season.
5) Festiva Maxima
Festiva Maxima is a well-regarded peony known for its classic beauty. This variety features large, white blooms adorned with crimson streaks. The petals are full and often provide a charming, fragrant display.
Typically, Festiva Maxima reaches a height of about 3 feet. Its sturdy stems make it suitable for cutting, allowing for arrangements that maintain their shape. These flowers bloom in late spring, offering vibrant color during the floral season.
Gardeners appreciate its impressive longevity after cutting. With proper care, the blooms can last over a week in a vase. The fragrance adds an additional layer of appeal for both floral arrangements and gardens.
Festiva Maxima thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Regular watering and fertilization can enhance its growth and flower production. This peony is often selected for weddings and special occasions due to its striking appearance.
6) Bowl of Beauty
Bowl of Beauty is a popular peony known for its unique appearance. This variety features a striking mix of colors, transitioning from soft pink to creamy white at the center.
The blooms are semi-double and can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. They showcase a cup-shaped form that adds elegance to any bouquet.
In addition to its beauty, Bowl of Beauty is fragrant, producing a sweet scent that enhances any floral arrangement. The strong, sturdy stems make it ideal for cutting and displaying in vases.
This peony blooms in late spring to early summer, providing a burst of color when many gardens are in full bloom. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in a range of conditions, making it a favorite among gardeners and florists alike.
With proper care, Bowl of Beauty can last up to a week in a vase, maintaining its freshness and beauty. Its striking visual appeal and delightful fragrance make it a top choice for cut flowers.
7) Charlie’s White
Charlie’s White is a striking peony variety known for its elegant blooms. The flowers are creamy white with a hint of pale pink, providing a beautiful contrast in gardens and arrangements.
This peony grows to a height of about 30 inches, making it suitable for various landscaping designs. Its sturdy stems support the large, fragrant blooms well, ensuring they stand tall in cut arrangements.
Charlie’s White blooms in late spring to early summer, typically peaking in June. Its longevity as a cut flower makes it a favorite among florists and home gardeners alike.
Caring for this variety involves sunny locations and well-draining soil. Adequate watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, to maintain healthy growth.
Overall, Charlie’s White is an excellent choice for those seeking a classic, refined look in floral displays. Its beauty and resilience make it a reliable option for cut flower enthusiasts.
8) Shirley Temple
Shirley Temple is a classic peony variety known for its lush, double blooms. The flowers showcase a soft, creamy white color that blushes with delicate pink hues at the edges. This characteristic makes it an elegant addition to any floral arrangement.
The blooms typically appear in late spring to early summer, providing a reliable source of cut flowers during this season. Each flower can grow to be quite large, reaching up to five inches across.
Shirley Temple prefers well-drained soil and full sun, making it relatively easy to grow. Its sturdy stems support the heavy blooms, allowing for vibrant bouquets.
This peony is also celebrated for its pleasant fragrance, adding a sensory dimension to floral displays. Gardeners often choose Shirley Temple for weddings and special occasions due to its romantic appearance and sweet scent.
9) Myrtle Gentry
Myrtle Gentry is a standout among peonies, known for its remarkable blooms. This cultivar features delicate, soft pink petals that exude a sweet fragrance.
The flowers are particularly large, often measuring up to 6 inches across. Their lush, full blossoms make them ideal for cut arrangements, adding elegance to any floral design.
Myrtle Gentry blooms in late spring to early summer, showcasing its beauty at a time when many other flowers are still emerging. The plant’s sturdy stems ensure that the blooms remain upright, making it a practical choice for cutting.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, these peonies are relatively easy to grow. They thrive in well-draining soil and prefer full sun to partial shade. With proper care, Myrtle Gentry can produce an abundance of flowers yearly.
Gardeners appreciate this variety for its resilience and long-lasting blooms, both in the garden and in floral displays. The combination of fragrance, size, and color makes Myrtle Gentry a favorite for anyone looking to enhance their flower arrangements.
10) Lady Orchid
Lady Orchid is a stunning peony variety, known for its unique coloration and striking appearance. It features soft pink petals with darker streaks, creating an eye-catching contrast.
This variety blooms in late spring to early summer, making it a great choice for cut flower arrangements. The lush, full blossoms have a delightful fragrance that enhances any space.
Lady Orchid grows well in full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained soil. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, to keep the plant healthy and vibrant.
Its sturdy stems make it ideal for cutting, allowing for long-lasting arrangements. Lady Orchid’s beauty and fragrance truly stand out, making it a favorite among gardeners and floral designers alike.
11) Raspberry Sundae
Raspberry Sundae is an exceptional peony variety characterized by its unique coloration. The blooms feature creamy white petals with raspberry red tips, creating a striking contrast that captivates any viewer.
This peony is known for its large, full peonies that can reach five to six inches in diameter. Its lush, fragrant flowers open in late spring to early summer, making it a sought-after choice for cut arrangements.
The foliage of Raspberry Sundae is robust, providing a sturdy backdrop for its stunning flowers. The plant typically grows to a height of 30 to 36 inches, offering an impressive presence in any garden.
Raspberry Sundae is also appreciated for its strong stems that support the heavy blooms. This quality makes it particularly suitable for floral displays and bouquets, as the flowers hold up well after cutting.
Gardeners value it for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions, requiring full sun and well-drained soil.
Understanding Peony Varieties
Peonies come in various types, each with unique characteristics that make them suitable for different garden settings and floral arrangements. The primary categories are tree peonies, herbaceous peonies, and intersectional peonies. Each offers distinct features that can enhance any cut flower collection.
Tree Peonies vs. Herbaceous Peonies
Tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa) are woody shrubs that can grow 3-7 feet tall. They produce large, often fragrant blooms in a range of colors. These flowers tend to be more stable and can last longer in a vase. The foliage remains during winter, providing year-round interest.
In contrast, herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora) die back to the ground each winter. They typically grow 2-3 feet tall and offer a diverse selection of flower forms, including single, semi-double, and double. These peonies are known for their robust stems, which make them ideal for cut arrangements. Both types require well-drained soil and full sun.
Intersectional Peonies Explained
Intersectional peonies, also known as Itoh peonies, are a hybrid between tree and herbaceous peonies. They combine the strengths of both types, featuring strong, woody stems and breathtaking blooms. These varieties can reach heights of 2-3 feet and often produce flowers in shades of yellow, coral, and pink.
Intersectional peonies bloom later in the season, extending the flowering period in gardens. The foliage is also a highlight, offering lush greenery throughout the growing season. They thrive in similar conditions to their parents—well-drained soil and ample sunlight. Their durability and beauty make them a popular choice for cut flowers.
Growing Conditions for Peonies
To thrive, peonies require specific conditions regarding soil type, light exposure, and proper watering and fertilization practices. Making the right choices in these areas ensures healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Optimal Soil Requirements
Peonies prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for their growth. Heavy clay soils can retain too much water, leading to root rot, while sandy soils may not hold enough moisture.
Incorporating compost or aged manure into the soil can enhance its texture and nutrient content. A soil test can provide precise pH and nutrient information, helping to tailor amendments for the best results. Good drainage is crucial, as peonies are susceptible to moisture-related issues.
Best Light Conditions
Peonies flourish in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ideally, they require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming. Insufficient light can result in fewer flowers and weaker stems.
When positioning peonies, it’s essential to consider their exposure throughout the season. Morning sun is particularly beneficial as it helps dry the foliage quickly, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Planting near taller plants can provide necessary shelter from harsh winds while ensuring adequate sunlight.
Watering and Fertilization Tips
Peonies have moderate water needs. They should be watered deeply but less frequently once established. Overwatering can lead to root issues, whereas inconsistent moisture can hinder growth.
Fertilizing should occur in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. A 10-10-10 blend is effective. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as these can promote foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds while also improving soil quality as it breaks down.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.