Peonies: early and late varieties with photos and descriptions. Japanese peony The best varieties of peonies for rockeries and rock gardens

There are 34 species in the genus Peony, and more than 5,000 varieties have been registered to date. Moreover, the vast majority of peony species include herbaceous varieties (about 4,500) and only about 500 varieties are tree-like. The time when the buds of all types of peony flowers begin to bloom varies from the beginning to the end of June. Photos and names of the best varieties of peonies, as well as descriptions of the plants, are for your attention on this page.

What types of peonies are there (with photos)

All flower growers are well aware of the colors of peonies: the color varies from white to dark red. Regardless of color, all varieties and varieties of peonies are divided into five main groups according to flower shape.

Below are photos and descriptions of the types of peonies of each of these groups:

1 group. Non-double - the flower has 5-10 petals, which are arranged in 1-2 rows, in the center there are pistils surrounded by stamens. Plants of this group are strong, with straight stems.

2nd group. Japanese - this is a transitional type from a simple flower to a double one. The stamens are modified, petal-shaped, sometimes curved inward and form a cushion. The color of the stamens is yellow, pink, red, matching the color of the petals or contrasting. The stems of plants in this group are straight and strong.

3rd group. Anemoneaceae - a flower has five or more petals, arranged in two or more rows. The stamens are modified and fill the center of the flower.

The stamens may be yellow or match the color of the petals, sometimes they may have a different color.

4th group. Semi-double - a flower with five or more petals, in the center the modified stamens are arranged in a ring shape, alternating with wide petal-shaped and normally developed stamens. Peonies of this group are light and lush. They last a long time when cut.

5 group. Terry - the flower has five or more wide outer petals, which are located around the center of the flower. In many varieties of this group, the stamens and pistils are modified into petals. There are varieties in which the stamens and pistils are developed normally, but are hidden by the petals. Peonies of this group are also divided into subgroups depending on the shape of the inflorescence.

As can be seen in the photo of peony varieties, the shape of the inflorescence can be Japanese, crown-shaped, spherical, rose-shaped, or anemone-shaped.

What types of peonies are there depending on the flowering period?

Peonies are divided into 7 groups according to flowering time: very early (OR), early (R), medium early (SR), medium (S), medium late (SP), late (L) and very late (VL).

Very early blooms before June 5th. Early varieties of peonies - from June 5 to June 10. Mid-early - from June 10 to 15. Average - from June 15 to 20. Mid-late - from June 20 to 25. Late varieties of peonies - from June 25 to 30. Very late - later than June 30.

The best early varieties and hybrids of peonies

This section of the article contains very early and early varieties of peonies with photos and names - they all bloom at the very beginning of June.

"Aritina Nozen Glory." The bush is beautiful, reaches a height of 70 cm, leafy, semi-spreading. The buds are lilac-pink in color, 20 cm in diameter. A flower with one row of wide outer petals. The stamens are bright yellow, collected in a pompom. Stems are pubescent, straight, strong. The leaves are large, carved, light green in color.

"Pearl placer." The bush reaches a height of 80-85 cm, slightly spreading. Japanese type bud. The description of the color of this peony variety is reminiscent of the “Aritina nozen Glory” variety - the inflorescences also have a lilac-pink color, but their diameter is slightly smaller (up to 14 cm). The stamens are modified, with bright pink tips. The flower is densely double. Feature - the bush grows quickly. The stems are straight, the leaves are small, bright green.

"Anne Berry Cousins." The bush reaches a height of 90-95 cm, compact, slightly spreading. The buds are coral pink, with yellow stamens in the center. The diameter of the flower is approximately 16 cm. The petals are arranged in 5-6 rows. It has an unusual luminous color. The leaves are quite large. The stems are thick, strong, slightly deviated, light. The foliage is dense. The hybrid of this variety of peonies is simple, semi-double.

"Lastres." The bush reaches a height of 70 cm. Quite compact. Beautiful buds of bright red color, yellow stamens with red veins. The diameter of the flower of this variety of peonies is approximately 19 cm. The buds are arranged in 4-5 rows, the stems are thick, with large leaves, and light. The leaves are bright and shiny. The flower is semi-double and has a pleasant, unobtrusive aroma. Looks good in a bouquet.

"Velma Atkinson." The height of the bush is 80 cm. The buds are bright carmine pink, with a diameter of 18 cm.

Look at the photo of peonies of this variety: the stamens are painted bright yellow, and in the center there is a pink “tuft”. Cream-colored petalodies. Japanese type variety. The leaves are green and shiny. Stems and leaf petioles are reddish in color. The petals are wavy. The variety is distinguished by abundant, long-lasting flowering due to the fact that it has many side buds on the peduncle. Fragrant. Great for the garden.

"Snow Mountain" The height of the bush is up to 75 cm. The buds are cream-colored, 17 cm in diameter, the variety has strong stems. The leaves are dark green and shiny. Peduncles are strong, but bend. Peony flowers of this variety have rounded petals. The aroma is average. Resistant to adverse weather conditions, as well as diseases and pests; winter-hardy and drought-resistant. The variety is a cut variety and can be used in landscaping only with a support. This is a universal one, one of the best varieties of peonies; it can be grown throughout Russia, except for the Far North.

"A la Mode." A beautiful variety. The bush reaches a height of 80 cm, semi-spreading. The buds are bright white, sparkling. The form is simple. The flower is large, reaching 21 cm in diameter. The stamens are bright yellow, which form a dense pompom in the center of the flower. The variety has good flowering. The stem is erect, on which up to 8 buds can be located. The flower has a pleasant smell. Can be grown everywhere. Sufficiently resistant to adverse weather conditions.

"America". A beautiful compact bush of this garden variety of peonies reaches 75 cm in height. The flower is dark red, up to 21 cm in diameter. Simple in shape, non-double. The petals are wide, with smooth edges, corrugated. The buds are shaped like tulips. The stamens are short, bright yellow, collected in the form of a pompom. Each stem contains up to 4 buds. The leaves are very decorative, green in color. The flower opens with wide, even petals. Has a slight odor. The variety is universal.

Here you can look at the photo to see what peonies are of very early and early varieties:

Mid-early varieties of peonies with photos and names

"Duchess De Nemours". One of the first garden varieties. The bush is up to 1 m high. The buds are white, in the center with a greenish-yellow tint, with a diameter of 19 cm. The flower has the smell of lilies of the valley, straight long stems. The leaves are large, dissected. Grows well in any soil. Very frost-resistant. Looks great in a flower bed, in group plantings, and looks very nice in a single planting.

"Mirage". The bush is tall, reaches 110 cm, very beautiful. The buds are of the Japanese type, light crimson in color, the stamens are modified, the same color with gold. The petals are large, ellipsoidal in shape. The flower is 13cm in diameter and has a strong jasmine scent. The stems are strong, highly branched, the leaves are dark green. An excellent park variety.

"Miss America" The height of the bush is up to 80 cm. When blooming, the buds are pink, then they become white with 6 rows of petals and bright yellow stamens. The diameter is 25 cm, the stem is strong. The variety is winter-hardy and does not require additional shelter. Grows well in open space with plenty of light. Do not plant in an area where groundwater rises high, otherwise the roots will rot. It is recommended to plant at a distance from buildings and shrubs to reduce shading.

Bridle Shower. Herbaceous variety. The height of the bush can reach from 85 to 100 cm. The buds are terry, white, in the center there are cream-colored petals, gathered into a dense ball. There are 2 rows of outer petals. The first flowers may have a pink blush. Diameter - 20 cm. The leaves are quite large, shiny, bright green. The stems are strong, strong, reddish in color, on which there are 4 buds. The flower has a pleasant but weak aroma.

Garden varieties of peonies with medium flowering period

Now check out the types of peonies, photos with the names of types of peonies with an average flowering period.

"In memory of Academician Tsitsin." Bush 90 cm high, slightly spreading. The flowers are densely double, pink-shaped, up to 20 cm in diameter, cream-colored with a pink tint. The petals have a yellow tint at the base. By the end of flowering, the color becomes almost white. The stems are strong, the leaves are large and dark green. Suitable for cutting. The variety is one of the best in domestic selection. This variety of peonies received its name in honor of the Soviet geneticist and breeder N.V. Tsitsin.

"In memory of Gagarin." Bush 90 cm high, compact. The buds are double, pink-shaped, the outer petals are wide, flesh-pink, the central ones are soft pink with a yellow base. Diameter 18 cm. Some central petals have carmine-colored edging. The flower has a faint pleasant aroma. The stems are strong, the leaves are shiny, dark green.

"Top Brass" The height of the bush is up to 90 cm. The buds are pale pink, with a diameter of 19 cm. The middle tier is bright yellow, the lower one is cream, the stems are strong. A flower of an unusual shape. The lower petals are very wide. It has a delicate specific aroma. The variety is resistant to adverse weather conditions, diseases and pests. It is also resistant to cold and drought. Recommended for cultivation throughout Russia, except for the Far North.

"Spring". A compact bush that reaches a height of 85 cm. The buds are double, crown-shaped, dense. The outside is light pink, the inside is creamy pink with a yellowish tint. The flower is quite large, 17 cm in diameter. It has a jasmine aroma. The stems are long, slightly drooping; the leaves are large, bright green. The variety is not affected by diseases. Universal. Recommended for cultivation throughout Russia, except for the Far North.

Varieties of mid-late peonies: regular and hybrid

In this section, we bring to your attention types, varieties and photos of mid-late flowering peonies.

"Sable." The height of the bush reaches 90 cm. The buds are of an unusual black-red color, with a diameter of 17 cm. The petals are wide, round, arranged in 3-4 rows. A variety with thin, slightly flexible stems. The flower is simple in shape, two-row. Stamens numerous, medium length. The leaves are large, medium green in color. There are seeds. Feature - there are no side buds.

"Kurile Islands". A very beautiful variety of domestic selection. The bush is slightly spreading, 100 cm high. The buds are Japanese type, pink-lilac in color, diameter 18 cm. The stamens are light, there is a pink tuft in the center of the flower. The stems are strong, with dark green shiny leaves. Does not require a garter. Has a light unobtrusive aroma. The variety is suitable for cutting.

"August Dessert" The bush reaches a height of 80 cm. The buds are double or semi-double, rich pink, the edges of the petals have a silver border, which gives the flower an original appearance. The outer petals are large, rounded, the inner ones are smaller. The stamens are bright yellow. The diameter of the flower is 15 cm, has an unobtrusive pleasant aroma. Does not require a garter. Recommended for cultivation throughout Russia. Looks great in a flower bed, suitable for cutting.

"Bartzella". It was bred in 1986. This is a semi-shrub hybrid variety of peonies, reaching a height of 90 cm. The flower is double, very large, 25 cm in diameter. Bright yellow in color, with red strokes in the center. The leaves are dark green. Has a lemon aroma. In 2002, this hybrid became the grand champion of the US national exhibition, and in 2006 it received the gold medal of the American Peony Society (APR). This plant will become a real decoration of the garden.

What color are late varieties of peonies (with photo)

In conclusion, we present to your attention the best varieties of late-flowering peonies.

"Arkady Gaidar". Bush 95 cm high, semi-spreading, multi-stemmed. The buds are densely double, hemispherical in shape, bright red, rich crimson, 17 cm in diameter. They have a strong, pleasant aroma. The stems are strong and densely leafy. The leaves are large, dark green with red veins. The variety is not affected by diseases. Suitable for cutting.

"Anchantress." Brought out in France at the beginning of the twentieth century. The height of the bush is 90-100 cm. The buds are double, pink-spherical in shape, when blooming they are white with a lemon-yellow tint, then become pure white. Diameter - 18 cm. Has a aroma reminiscent of a rose. The stems are clustered and have a reddish tint on top. The leaves are shiny, dark green.

"George Peyton." It was bred in the USA in 1938. The bush reaches a height of 90 cm, has few stems, spreading, and grows slowly. The buds are double, hemispherical in shape, white-cream in color, in the center with a pink tint, sometimes quite rich, with a diameter of 19 cm. The petals are wide, carved. If it's a hot summer, you can see stamens in the center of the flower. The stems are strong. The leaves are large and green. The flower has a faint aroma. Characterized by abundant flowering.

"Gladys Taylor." The bush reaches a height of 80 cm. The buds are double, spherical, dark pink in color, later becoming silver-pink, also acquiring a pearlescent tint. The flower is quite large, 18 cm in diameter. The stems bend under the weight of the flower. The leaves are large and green. The flower has a pleasant delicate aroma. Flowering is quite abundant. Suitable for growing in the middle zone. Looks good both as a cut flower and in a flower bed.

Pay attention to the photo, what color peonies are: The variety of colors is amazing!

This ornamental plant with luxurious flowers and beautiful openwork foliage is considered one of the oldest species, since it was cultivated back in the first century BC (China). These are mostly herbaceous perennials, but can also be shrubs. A variety of peonies, some varieties of which are presented here with photos and names, will grow beautifully in the garden or at the dacha.

All plants of the Peony genus, which is the only one in the Peony family, are divided into five sections.

The first section unites four species of bush peonies, from which a large number of varieties have been bred.

Some varieties:

Peony "Snow Lotus" is loved by gardeners for its large white flowers (10 to 20 cm wide), the middle of which is emphasized by brown-purple spots. The rounded bush grows up to one and a half meters. Has good endurance.
The “Golden Placer” peony attracts attention with its double large flowers of yellowish-salmon color with a purple-pink edging and a pleasant slight aroma.

Peony "Snow Lotus"
Peony "Gold placer"

Peony "Blue Lotus" stands out for its good frost resistance and pinkish-blue inflorescences.

Second section

The second section includes 8 species with delicate cream or yellowish flowers. In nature, they can be seen in the Caucasus or the Far East. These are the following herbaceous types of peonies: p. milky-flowered, p. felt, p. large-leaved, p. Wittmann, p. Steven, p. Mlokosevich, Abkhazian and mountain. It is worth noting that most of these plants are included in the Red Book.

Milky-flowered- a type of peony, found naturally in the Far East and some areas of the Trans-Baikal Territory. The bushes are formed by shoots from 60 to 100 cm long, at the end of which there are either one or several inflorescences. The green leaves, complex in structure (double trifoliate), consist of several large lobes and have an elongated leaf base. White or reddish inflorescences, consisting of 5-8 petals, bloom from May to June. The stamens, painted in a golden-yellowish hue, especially attract attention. Quite large oval seeds are black. They ripen in late summer - early autumn.

Today, almost 70 percent of all existing varieties of herbaceous peonies come from lacticiferous peonies. There are both intraspecific hybrids and interspecific peonies obtained by crossing different species. Most often, these are varieties obtained by crossing the milky peony with other species. Such breeding work makes it possible to obtain plants with original, spectacular colors and flower shapes.

Such hybrids include the Coral Sunset peony. Its coral-salmon flowers are of great interest.

Interspecific hybrids also include the White Charm peony with spectacular light pink inflorescences, the Sable peony, the Diana Parks peony, the Cytheria peony and others.

Peony "Diana Parks"
Peony "Coral Sunset"

Let's get acquainted with other common varieties obtained from the milky peony.

White peonies:

"Solange." This variety was created in 1907. Large, white, densely double flowers resemble a ball in shape (diameter about 17 cm). The medium-height bush is formed by green, arching stems that are covered with a large number of leaves. Peony "Solange" blooms late.

Peony "Solange"

The mid-early variety "Charles White" attracts attention with elegant white spherical flowers (diameter from 18 to 20 cm), which are located on long thin shoots. The center of the inflorescence is colored whitish-cream. The Charles White peony can reach a height of almost a meter, but it definitely requires supports.

Pink peonies:

The variety "Princess Julianna" was bred in 1910. A large double flower of the most delicate pink hue is located on the tops of strong green shoots. Beautiful dark green leaves have a glossy surface. The variety is also loved for its attractive subtle aroma.

Peony "Alexander Fleming"

The Alexander Fleming variety was first introduced to the public in 1941. Large flowers, resembling roses in appearance, bloom on long, slightly drooping branches. The pink color of the inflorescences attracts attention.

Red peonies:

"Marshal Mac Mahon" is considered one of the oldest varieties (1867) with a medium-late flowering time. Its densely double flowers with an attractive aroma, painted in red-carmine color, can reach a width of 16 cm. Spreading, well-developed bushes are covered with a large number of leaves.

The “Carol” peony is quite popular, the flower of which has a bright red color and a diameter of about 15 cm, but does not fade in the sun. The aroma of this peony is weak, and the branches are quite flexible, so the bush needs additional support.

The "Appasionata" variety was obtained in the Soviet Union in 1963. Small bushes, growing up to 50-60 cm, are formed by thin, strong shoots. Small narrow leaves are dark green. Dark red-pink flowers emit a sweetish delicate aroma when blooming.

The following varieties of herbaceous peonies also deserve attention: peony “Pearl Placer”, peony “Pink Cloud”, peony “Black Pearl”, peony “Victor de la Marne” and peony “Alexandre Dumas”.

Peony "Carol"

Mlokosevich peonies is an endemic plant of Eastern Transcaucasia. This means that it grows naturally only in this region and nowhere else. This plant was discovered in 1901. Tall bushes of this species are formed by strong, slightly reddish stems with a smooth surface. Small yellowish or cream-colored flowers (8 to 12 cm in diameter) bloom in early May. The seeds fully ripen only in August.

One of the secrets of landscape design is the combination of plants of different heights. The mutually successful arrangement of low and high forms emphasizes the advantages of each other, and also serves as a decoration for the flaws of the garden plot. You don't have to be a professional to design your own garden. But every gardener needs to know the advantages, disadvantages and subtleties of agricultural technology of plants cultivated on the site.

One of the subshrubs that has become fashionable recently is the shrub, which differs from its herbaceous counterpart in many respects. This is a hybrid variety from the peony family, bred in China in ancient times. There are about five hundred varieties of plants in their homeland. New species are also being successfully developed in Japan, where the cultivation of tree peony has been elevated to the rank of a national tradition. Europeans first became acquainted with flowering shrubs in the 18th century, and since then its victorious march across the planet began.

In the diaries of travelers who visited the Land of the Rising Sun, the description of the tree peony contained the following lines: “A fragrant bush, in the shade of which you can hide, enjoying with delight its fragrant flowers, attracting both the human eye and numerous insects feasting on its nectar.” Indeed, the height of an adult hybrid varies from 1 to 2 meters.

Tree peonies are subshrubs with strong woody stems.

In autumn, sometimes their shoots do not die off, like those of herbaceous varieties, but from year to year they only become taller and stronger. During one season, the young bush adds 25-50 cm in height. The foliage of the hybrids is complex pinnate and lacy, the flowers are 12 cm or more. Among the varieties there are plants that form both double and simple buds, and the range of shades will be the envy of any artist. Woody hybrids bloom a couple of weeks earlier than herbaceous ones and remain in this form for 20-23 days.

Worthy representatives of the family - groups and varieties

The large number of varieties is not an easy task for classifying plants that is understandable to the common man. It will be useful for gardeners to know that tree peony varieties form three main groups:

Plants in pink-red tones, with large, slightly drooping double flowers - the Chinese-European segment of hybrids.
Subshrubs with small double or simple inflorescences protruding above the greenery - Japanese varieties.
Woody plants that bloom in yellow-orange colors are considered derivatives of the Delaway peony and belong to the group of yellow peonies.

Yellow varieties of crops

Sunny-colored varieties are the youngest representatives of the species, which have no analogues among herbaceous representatives. These are modern, but rapidly gaining popularity varieties.

Red varieties are a popular classic

The most common tree peony is red, characterized by lush summer flowering. The height depends on the variety and varies from 1 to 1.8 meters. The flowers are simple or double, 15 to 18 cm in diameter. The most famous varieties: “Silk Road”, “Flight of the Swallow”, “Red Clouds of Baiyuan”. Late tree peony Red giant is a medium-sized plant up to 1.5 meters. Forms 30-70 flowers depending on the age of the bush. The diameter of the crown-shaped inflorescences is 16 cm. The variety is frost-resistant, prefers slightly shaded places with fertile light soil.

Shades of pink – tenderness and aroma

Not far behind the scarlet flowers in beauty is the pink tree peony, which has several dozen varieties. Its inflorescences can be double spherical, both in the “August” variety, and simple (“Anastasia Sosnowets”).

In June, the Sapphire tree peony blooms, a shrub with inflorescences up to 16-18 cm in diameter. This medium-sized plant, 120 cm high, produces 50 simple flowers with silky light pink petals and a scarlet core.

Fragrant tree peony Transparent dew in the segment of pink varieties is distinguished by the bluish tint of delicate spherical flowers. Flowering later. The length of the stems of an adult bush is 130-150 cm. The number of flowers with a diameter of 20 cm starts from 30 pieces.

Mid-early tree peony Blue sapphire belongs to the pink-red Chinese group of subshrubs. Blooms in mid-June. It is distinguished by the beauty of its openwork complex leaves and tall growth. The flowers are blue-pink, with purple splashes, and reach 16 cm in diameter.

Late-blooming tree peony Green Ball is a plant with large pink-shaped flowers, 18 cm in diameter. The peculiarity of the variety is that at first the bud opens with delicate greenish balls, gradually changing the color of the petals to a soft pink translucent. The color shades of pink varieties vary from light, almost white, to rich dark. The species are well preserved in winter, but are susceptible to some diseases of the species, for example, gray rot.

All the colors of the rainbow

Unique green tree peonies belong to the Chinese-European group. For their delicate light green color, breeders often give them names after legumes.

The Green Bean peony is the best known of the species, a late-blooming plant with large, spherical flowers. “Lotus” is a violet tree peony, the owner of giant flowers, their size is about 25 cm. And the plant itself is compact, 120-130 cm. It is a profusely flowering woody shrub in the shape of a hemisphere, each with 30-70 fragrant purple ones with a yellow center simple flowers.

In the climate of Russia, blue tree peony is a rare phenomenon; these are heat-loving varieties of the plant. One of the oldest varieties of white tree peony “Primavera”, translated as “Spring”, is similar to another early flower - narcissus. Its inflorescences are double, with a yellowish pompom in the center. No less famous is the “Silk Veil” variety, which has exotic simple flowers that are snow-white with a purple base of the petals.

A special group includes the yellow tree peony, which distinguishes several dozen varieties. The range of shades has hundreds of options. This is the most modern group of peonies, which has its brightest representatives in our country: the light yellow “Bartzella”, the orange “Kinko”, the pale greenish-yellow variety “Ozarenie”.

Tree-like flowering shrubs - subtleties and tricks of growing

A flowering subshrub, displacing more familiar herbaceous species in the hearts of gardeners, within 3-4 years it turns from a small seedling into a one and a half meter hemisphere, decorated with openwork foliage and fragrant flowers. But for such a wonderful change, it is necessary to provide the plant with the necessary conditions and care worthy of the “king of flowers”.

Planting and caring for a young plant - where to plant a seedling

A perennial of the peony family, it is a long-liver; its age can go back several decades, so planting a tree-like peony in a well-chosen place is of paramount importance in caring for it.

Unpretentious in general, this shrub does not tolerate unnecessary disturbance to the roots, so it cannot be transplanted from place to place. Finding a site for a peony for a long time is what you need to take care of when purchasing a young shoot. The soil requirements for all groups are the same - it must be neutral, loamy and fertile.

You need to know several nuances of choosing a landing site:

peony prefers sunny, well-ventilated areas, but protected from drafts and sharp gusts of wind;
you should take into account the large size of an adult bush and think in advance about its proximity to other plants and construction projects in the garden;
the most favorable place is a small hill, since spring flooding of the roots poses a considerable danger to the health of the plant.

In areas with high groundwater levels, care should be taken in advance about ways to drain them. Or arrange an artificial hill for the peony.

Before placing tree peony seedlings in the ground, you should take care of the favorable composition of the soil. This:

turf land;
clay;
peat;
sand;
humus.

The soil must contain all the nutrients in the required quantities to give a start to the healthy growth and development of the seedling. If the soil of the site is acidic in composition, 1-2 cups of lime or bone meal should be added to the hole for the young bush.

How to plant a young bush correctly

The second most important task is how to plant a tree peony correctly. A hole is prepared for each seedling, at a distance of at least 2 meters from each other, 70-80 cm deep. Be sure to arrange a thick drainage layer (30-35 cm). Fertile soil is poured onto the drainage in the form of a hill, on which the seedling bush is placed. The roots are watered with enough water to straighten them out. Then they put enough soil into the hole so as not to cover the root collar. The seedling must be healthy, without visible damage, consist of 2-3 shoots with buds and healthy roots. The most suitable height for a young plant suitable for planting is 20-25 cm. The bush in the hole is watered abundantly, and the surface of the ground is sprinkled with dry soil or sand.

The time for the work described is autumn; planting a tree peony in the spring is irrational. In any months except August and September, propagating shrubs with seedlings carries the risk of getting a weak plant that is unable to cope with winter cold. In the spring, a young tree peony will begin to actively develop the ground part - shoots and leaves, and to prepare for winter, a healthy and strong root system is necessary. in the spring is possible only if it is a seedling not of a varietal type, but of a peony grafted onto a rootstock.

The Importance of Infant Growth

The first three to four years of shrub development are the most important. This time is the key to a healthy future and longevity. Timely and high-quality care for tree peony consists of following certain rules:

When the plant reaches the age of 3 years, seasonal crown formation begins. In the spring, remove weak branches damaged in winter. In autumn, the stems are trimmed to form a spherical crown.

Not only the shoots, but also the flowering parts of the plant require special treatment. Eat a few tricks on how to grow a tree peony with large flowers:

in the first year of life, the blooming flowers are removed so that the plant “throws all its energy” into strengthening the roots;
from the third year, a third of the formed buds are cut off from the bush so that the remaining ones are larger and more magnificent;
after 10 years, to renew the bush, it is heavily pruned in the fall.

During the first two years, on a young shoot, flowers are formed that are far from varietal qualities. You should not accuse seedling suppliers of dishonesty until three years have passed. All the floral splendor begins precisely during the fourth spring-summer season of the bush’s life.

Growing from seeds - stages of a troublesome journey

If it is not possible to purchase seedlings, then tree peony propagation is carried out using seed material. You can buy it in a store or prepare it yourself. This process is not easy, troublesome, and has its own subtleties:

Patient and painstaking cultivation is complicated by the fact that a peony from seeds will delight you with flowers only after 5 years. There is no guarantee that the seeds will retain all varietal qualities, since many lignified peonies are hybrid varieties, so flowers on plants from seeds can become another source disappointments.

Decorate life with color and aroma

It is impossible to list all the varieties of flowering shrubs, much less describe all the variety of shapes and shades inherent in them. Growing tall bushes is becoming more and more popular every season. Moreover, tree peonies in landscape design can satisfy the most demanding taste. These plants on the site will give you the aesthetic joy of admiring fantastic flowers of the most exotic colors. Of considerable importance in decorating life is the delicate but persistent aroma of fragrant bushes, spreading tens of meters around the floral splendor.

Peonies are divided into two types: tree-like and herbaceous. In Russia, more than 500 varieties are used in landscaping.

It is important to distinguish peony flowers by their external structure:

anemone-shaped - simple;
semi-double;
terry - complex.

Tree peony Paeonia suffruticosa

Since this type of plant was brought to Russia from China, Japan, and then other bred varieties were brought from Europe, the winter hardiness and flowering itself of these specimens wanted to be better due to the more severe climate. Therefore, Russian breeders got to work and developed varieties that are resistant to our winter.

Tree peonies bloom earlier than herbaceous peonies, but faster. Another feature is that the older the bush, the more flowers it will bear in the future.

The best ones:

Variety "Irina"

Such a slow-growing shrub can grow and not bloom even for up to 10 years in a row. Often, to speed up its development, cuttings of a tree peony are grafted onto the roots of a herbaceous peony. This method is very common, especially often done with roses, grafting them onto rose hips (Rosa rugosa).

All about new products and fashion trends

The most unusual and, perhaps, the most priceless discovery in the world of peony varieties was the birth ito hybrids. They were obtained by crossing the milky-flowering peony with the tree peony.

The main and initial goal of creating itoh hybrids was to obtain yellow color of flowers, which the Japanese breeder subsequently succeeded in after 1,200 crossings, and the yellow-flowered individuals took shape as a variety after the death of the creator.

The hybrids retained the shape of the leaves of the tree peony, and retained the ability to reproduce by rhizomes (woody), as in the milky-flowered peony. The ground part is dying.

What is the superiority of hybrids over maternal species?

The appearance of early flowering double and semi-double varieties.
Bright unusual colors of flowers.
Long gradual flowering.
A two-color color of flowers and petals appears.
Flowers of different colors can bloom on one bush.

The downside of ito hybrids is that over time the rhizomes become lignified and the quality of the cuttings deteriorates, and such peonies are now asking a fairly high price on the market.

Popular and resistant ito hybrid varieties:

The creation of ito hybrids marked yellow era .

"Bartzella" with lemon scent. The first two or three years, like all ito hybrids, seem to hide the flowers inside the bush, but after that, when they come into force, they amaze with their flowering.

Modern trends in landscape design gravitate toward the use of fragrant plants in flower beds, and this also applies to peonies.

The following were developed aromatic varieties How:

If previously there was a tendency towards double, lushly flowering plants, now landscape designers have begun to be attracted to simple varieties with non-double inflorescences.

Another fashion trend can be called popularity white-flowered, cream, large peonies, such as:

"Moon River", cream. Stamens and pistil are missing. The stems are not very strong and need support.

"Shirley Temple", named after the actress. This magnificent variety requires virtually no care and does not lose its bush shape under the weight of large semi-double inflorescences.

Or delicate, “wedding” peonies:

"White Swan", pink-shaped inflorescence. Delicate aroma.

Very popular variety "Pink Hawaii Coral", changes shades from coral to orange. Very abundant flowering.

Mini peonies

Recently there have appeared miniature patio peonies. They are often used for container gardening and. Their height does not exceed 60 cm, the bush has a compact shape, and the flowers are mainly anemone-shaped, with an early flowering period. The aroma is spicy, fragrant. But these varieties are completely new and there is little information about them; some believe that this is not a variety, but ordinary peonies treated with growth retardants.

Interestingly, such peonies are named after world cities:

"Madrid"- flowering at the end of May-June.

"Rome"- especially decorative with a dense terry center.

"Moscow"- rich red color, beautifully contrasting with dark foliage and yellow anthers.

"London"- densely double red flowers.

Herbaceous peonies

Long-lived herbaceous plants can grow in one place without replanting for ten years.

In order to create continuous flowering of peonies in the garden, it is necessary to select varieties with different flowering periods.

Early varieties - May-June

Varieties bred by Russian breeders: "Anastasia" And "Katyusha Dubrova".

Variety "Rosea Plena". The photo below is not entirely true - the color is lighter and pink.

Peony "Red Charm"- has a light aroma, the bush does not require support. The plant is beautiful when cut, the foliage takes on a purple hue in autumn.

Mid-late varieties - flowering in late June - early July

Let us describe the leader of this group - Peony lactiflora ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ (Sarah Bernhardt).

A tall perennial plant with dark green shiny leaves. The maximum size of the bush is up to 1 meter in height and up to 70 cm in width. The flowers are large, up to 20 cm in diameter, double.

The colors of the flowers are pink; over time, the edges of the petals become lighter, but there are also other colors, for example, red and white.

This is the so-called “classic” peony variety; it is already more than a hundred years old, so it can be considered a proven and reliable plant for landscaping.

The variety is named after the dark-haired beauty actress Sarah Bernard. It is believed that the first color of the variety was a rich dark pink color, but now it is recognizable due to its delicate pink shades with a smooth transition to lighter ones at the edges of the petals.

Peony Sarah Bernard, general view

Peony Sarah Bernhardt - flowers

It does not tolerate high groundwater (must be at least 1 meter deep), if the condition is not met, the peony must be planted on elevated ridges and create good drainage.

Other features of the “Sara Bernad” variety:

Like all peonies, it loves loam and good soil fertility.
Light-loving.
The aroma is unpleasant.

Late varieties

Herbaceous peony "Marshal Veillant"- this is a new variety of peony, recently just shown at an exhibition in the botanical garden in St. Petersburg. No photo yet. It has large double inflorescences, like several fused buds, pale pink with a light white tint.

Mostly late varieties are varieties not domestic selection. There is a danger that they will freeze and will not have time to prepare for winter, but many take risks by using them on their site as an autumn accent. Japanese varieties are especially popular, as they combine specific colors with a pleasant aroma, bloom profusely and easily, and have interesting features, for example, “Bu-ti” has a pinkish tint at the beginning of flowering.

Late flowering peony Bu-Te. The name is not Russian, so the spelling may vary.

Cutting varieties

All varieties with long peduncles are suitable for cutting - Sarah Bernard (especially the white variety), Plena varieties, patio peonies.

Peonies are cut early in the morning at the stage of a ripe, already opening bud. If you place a cut flower in hot water, it will bloom right before your eyes. Cuttings can be stored in a cold room for up to 9 days.

All of the listed varieties are suitable for growing in the Moscow region.

Particularly popular, in addition to those described:

Tree peonies - varieties “Green Beans”, “White Phoenix”, “Smolin”, “Marianna”.
Herbaceous peonies - varieties “Balleriana”, “Shroeder Baroness”, “Cora Stubbs”, “Festiva Maximma”, “Highlight”, “Midnight Sun”, “Pillow Current”.

Features of caring for varietal peonies:

In the first year after planting, the peony is weakened, so its flowering will be weak, and the varietal qualities will not be fully manifested.
The only place where you can see the true appearance of a flower variety without relying on images on the Internet is at festivals and special exhibitions. For example, Moscow Flower Show.
Peony renewal buds should always be slightly buried in the ground, about 3 cm, so sprinkle them with mulch.
The most common fungal disease of peonies is gray rot. They fight it with copper sulfate or Bardos liquid, but these are aggressive chemical compounds, so you can use specialized biological products that can be found in the store, for example, “Maxim”.
Ito hybrids can be pruned for the winter; there is no need to cover them.
Do not overfeed peonies with nitrogen fertilizers.
Acidic soils are mixed with lime or dolomite flour before planting peonies.

Why don't peonies bloom?

Some important points of care, as well as the answer to the question that worries many gardeners, “why don’t peonies bloom abundantly?” - in the video below.