Peony Root

The appearance of a peony root will vary with age and species. Younger roots are straighter and easier to cut, for example. And the Chinese tree peony differs from the crown of an herbaceous peony or the Japanese tree peony, propagated by grafting. For each, the bare-root planting season is in the fall, before winter freezes the ground. Any rumor about peonies being difficult to grow invariably comes from folks planting bare roots in the spring, or letting the roots stand in water after planting. The roots desire good drainage at all times.

When peony plants are shipped, it is usually peony root that is packaged, since this is the safest stage. The bare-root form should be planted as soon as it is received. If storage for a few days is necessary, pack it carefully in a box of sand or potting compost, something that will stay cool and moist, but not soaking wet.

There have been terrible times in history when many species of tree peony in particular were destroyed during natural and man-made disasters. When faced with starvation, growers were forced to dig up their beloved peonies in order to plant food crops. During the Cultural Revolution of 1966-1976, no one was allowed to raise flowers.

Medicinal Uses for Peony Root

When no one was allowed to raise flowers during the Cultural Revolution, peony root survived regardless because it could (only) be grown for medicinal purposes. For millennia, Chinese apothecaries have decocted various strengths, and combinations with other herbs, to treat a wide variety of illnesses and conditions. Europe has also used it for certain medical problems, though this is less well known. In all cases, professional supervision and guidance is necessary to prevent toxic overdose.