Peony History
The modern peony is the result of many years of devotion and effort on the part of plant breeders. Peonies have been cultivated in China for more than 2,000 years, not only for it's flowers but for it's roots, which were used for food and medicine. It was named in honour of Paeon, the physician of the gods. According to mythology, he received the first peony on Mount Olympus from the hands of Leto. The very last link at the bottom of this page will reveal many more interesting facts about the peony in history and lore.
In Praise of the Peony
Present day gardeners are inclined to take peonies for granted. Is this because they are so common? The fact that they are so common tends to emphasize their many worth-while qualities. Peonies are hardy, permanant, very easy to grow and enjoy freedom from pests for the most part. The varieties available are very diverse in flower form and colour.
Peonies also rank high as cut flowers; they last a very long time in a vase.
Some horticulturists consider interest in peonies to be on the wane after a burst of breeding activity in the late-80s. The fact remains, their potentiality for further improvement and diversity seems inexhaustable, and in the last few years, a few new varieties have come along that eclipse even some of the classics in form and colour.
Often overlooked, one of the finest features of peonies is the fabulous fall colour they provide. If grown in sun, peonies leaves turn from green to burgundy in a matter of a week. Planted among fall-flowering perennials, such as Echinacea purpurea (the purple cone flower) and Eupatorum purpureum, they come into their own once again!
Growing Peonies
SOIL: Rich, friable garden soil is best. Heavy soil is fine providing it's well-drained. Some form of organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or leafmold can be added to make it more friable. Sandy soil is OK as long as fertility is maintained. Manure is good for this too but many gardeners get more specific and say that 'horse apples' are best. Peonies prefer a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
