Peony

Paeonia

A long-lived herbaceous perennial with large, often fragrant late-spring/early-summer flowers; foliage dies back in fall.

Sun
full sun (6+ hrs); tolerates light afternoon shade
Water
moderate
Mature size
2-3 ft × 2-3 ft
Bloom
Large, often fragrant flowers in late spring–early summer.
Hardiness
USDA Zones 3–8

Care guide

Quick ID

Long-lived herbaceous perennial (*Paeonia*). Large, frequently fragrant flowers in late spring to early summer.

Sun & Site

Full sun (6+ hrs); rich, well-drained soil. Plant the crown shallow (eyes ~1-2" deep) — deep planting is the most common reason peonies fail to bloom.

Seasonal Care

Cut foliage to the ground in fall (reduces disease carryover). Light spring feed; avoid high nitrogen.

In my garden

NW12 plants
SunFull sun
Soilsandy loam, fast percolation
Water sourceCulinary
Hardiness hereZone 7
2
Plants
What I've done here
  • 2026-05Spring mulch push (May 12–16)
  • 2026-04-09Pre-emergent applied
backyard west2 plants
SunFull sun
Soilsandy loam, fast percolation
Water sourceCulinary
Hardiness hereZone 7
2
Plants
What I've done here
  • 2026-04-20Mulched
  • 2026-04-09Pre-emergent applied
mastersuite5 plants
SunFull sun
Soilsandy loam, fast percolation
Water sourceCulinary
Hardiness hereZone 7
5
Plants
What I've done here
  • 2026-05Spring mulch push (May 12–16)
  • 2026-04-09Pre-emergent applied