| Common Name | Peony |
| Scientific Name | Paeonia lactiflora |
| USDA Zones | 3-8 |
| Sunlight | Full sun (6+ hours) to part shade |
| Soil | Rich, well-draining, neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.5–7.0) |
| Mature Size | 2–3 ft tall × 2–4 ft wide |
| Bloom Time | May to early June |
Peonies are May’s standout choice because they burst into spectacular bloom just as spring reaches its peak, offering an unrivaled combination of size, color variety, and fragrance.
Their long-lived nature means you can enjoy these lush, ruffled blossoms year after year with minimal fuss, and their sturdy stems make them perfect for cutting into stunning bouquets.
From pure whites and soft pinks to deep crimsons and unusual chartreuses, peonies bring both classic charm and modern vibrancy to any garden border or container.
Cultivars to Try
The thing that’s particularly great about peonies is the variety. Peonies come in different sizes, shades, colors and more. Check out the top cultivars we love the most:
| Cultivar | Form & Color | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sarah Bernhardt | Semi-double, blush pink | Exceptionally fragrant, garden classic |
| Karl Rosenfield | Fully double, deep red | Vivid color, strong stems |
| Festiva Maxima | Fully double, white with crimson flecks | Highly sought-after, fragrant |
| Bartzella | Semi-double, buttery yellow | Intersectional hybrid, long bloom period |
| Coral Charm | Semi-double, coral center fading to cream | Long flowering window |
| Duchess de Nemours | Fully double, pristine white | Elegant, reliable bloom |
| Shirley Temple | Fully double, soft pink | Named for the actress, very fragrant |
| Gertrude Jekyll | Semi-double, rose pink | Heirloom variety, strong garden presence |
| Mons. Jules Elie | Fully double, rich magenta | Early bloomer, striking color |
| Morning Lilac | Fully double, lavender-lilac | Unique hue, delicate fragrance |