The tree peony, more properly a shrub, has existed for thousands of years. In China, it is thought it may have existed for as long as 5,000 years, grown only by the nobility. In any event, one of the earliest books about the species Paeonia suffruticosa was written eleven hundred years ago. So-called lesser persons were not permitted to cultivate plants that had such an esteemed status in horticulture.

The tree peony is called the King of Flowers in many parts of Asia. China did not even permit its actual export until recent times. This species of peony also exists in Japan where large fields are likewise dedicated by nurseries to its cultivation for market, including export overseas. So well-loved is it now, worldwide, that nurseries in many countries including the United States, Canada, Lithuania and others are able to grow and export these handsome plants. They've even been imported by Australian gardeners and have acclimated well in the southern hemisphere.

These peonies can be shipped in the spring as well as in the fall if potted or in a container. They can also be shipped bare root in late fall or early winter. Unlike herbaceous peonies, they do quite well in the shade as long as air can move freely around them. However, a too-open location with strong breezes might shorten the life of blooms.

Tree Peony Planting

A bare root tree peony needs deep planting with good and appropriate fertilizer mixed in with the soil, which should also be well-aerated and well-drained. If the seedling or young plant has been in any kind of a container, planting should be slightly deeper than the soil level of the pot. With proper watering, the peony will settle down, producing new leaves and shoots above ground the first year, and lots of new roots underground. Flowers may appear in one year or as long as four years. If the plant looks healthy, not to worry.