Description

Tree Peonies (Central China 'Paeonia suffruticosa') is hardy, medium sized, deciduous shrubs. Unlike the more commonly grown herbaceous peony (which produces shoots from a tuber then dies back to ground level each year) the Tree Peony produces woody stems which will grow larger each year, eventually reaching between 1.5 and 2.5 metres in height and width. Tree Peonies flower depending on variety,location and climate regions, also dictate the flowering time frames. The typical flowering season starts in April, and lasts until June,producing large, scented, single, semi-double or double flowers.

Tree peonies are the Chinese national flower and have been popular since the 7th century. In fact, the tree peony is synonymous with the phrase "spring flower". Tree peonies represent good fortune, love and prosperity, and are considered the essence of the Yin (female) element in nature. The plant itself is considered male, thus it has supreme unity in both the male and female elements.

Flower structure ( 9 types ):

1. Single Form
2. Lotus Form
3. Chrysanthemum Form
4. Rose Form
5. Hundred Proliferate Form
6. Anemone Form
7. Golden Circle Form
8. Crown Form
9. Globular Form

flower color(9 colors)
1.red
2.pink
3.purple
4.white
5.violet
6.yellow
7.green
8.double
9.dark

Plant forms:

1. Erect
2. Partially spreading
3. Spreading

Growing Instructions

Tree Peonies grow best in neutral, fertile, well-drained soil. Clay, chalk and sandy soils are OK as long as the plants don’t become too dry or wet. Water-logged and very dry sites should be avoided.

Thoroughly prepare the site and incorporate some well rotted organic material.

Tree peonies are extremely hardy but new growth can be damaged by spring frosts. To counter this, choose a fairly open site but, if possible, one that has shelter from strong winds and early morning sunshine. Avoid deep shade or roots of large trees.

These pot-grown Tree Peonies should be planted slightly deeper than soil level in the pot. This is particular important for the grafted varieties when the graft must be covered by ***0 cm of soil to encourage the graft to form its own roots and shoots. Should suckers appear from the herbaceous nursery-stock (the foliage is different from the grafted tree peony) remove the sucker, although note the grafted peony will also produce shoots from the base.

Occasionally a newly planted tree peony will require a 'settling in 'period - not making much top growth or producing any flowers in its first season, whilst the roots become established. Providing the foliage looks healthy - be patient. Growth buds should appear in autumn, followed by vigorous growth in early spring.

Pruning should not be necessary, although they can be trimmed back into shape if required or die-back removed in the dormant period.