Peony Culture

Peony Culture encompasses the growing plant and the art that has grown up over the millennia around this aristocratic flower species. As one writing team has observed, "the lofty position of the peacock among birds is just like that of the peony among flowers." The tree peony grows more slowly than the herbaceous peony and from the aesthetic standpoint is not useful as a cut flower, except to float in an ornamental bowl while entertaining guests. On the other hand, vases of herbaceous peonies fill any home with overwhelming fragrance and beauty.

Whether for tree peony or herbaceous plant, peony culture requires some thought as to planting location to harvest the healthiest specimens and ensure future enjoyment. They will then live long and probably untroubled lives. Tree peonies rather enjoy a little shade during the hottest hours of the day, while the herbaceous varieties like 6 to 8 hours of sunshine. Some gardeners place oriental umbrellas over sensitive plants during the afternoons.

The correct planting depth, 2" above the eyes in the crown, in a fertile, well-drained soil, is a critical first step, along with spacing two to three feet apart. These bold plants do take up their required share of the space in a border or wherever they are planted. Good watering and well-aged compost until the plants are established, and very careful pruning encourage healthy growth in peonies. Sturdy staking for the doubles and protection from strong winds for all varieties is appreciated.

Peony Culture is Embodied in the Culture of Civilization

Peonies have been beloved by artists since the earliest days in China and now elsewhere. Peony culture, especially the blooms, appears in textiles, paintings, wall hangings, porcelain, posters, and many other items dear to the educated human heart. Poems, at least one opera, and literary short stories allude to the peony. The tree peony is a major cultural symbol in China, being named the national flower in 1994.