Everything about the peony

An explosion of colours

The peony – also known as peony and paeonie – is a beautiful spring bloomer. When the modest bud opens, a majestic play of colors, shapes and scents unfolds. Different types of peonies do beautifully in the garden, and certainly also in the vase. Knowing more? On this page you can read everything about the peony.

The peony: an impressive spring bloomer

Peonies are usually only available in the months of May and June. This is because the peony is a real spring bloomer. And what kind! Whether you have them in your garden or in a vase: during their bloom they put on a show that you will not soon forget. What starts as a rather crumpled bud quickly grows into an explosion of color. Because when the bud opens, (depending on the variety) dozens to more than a hundred delicate leaves emerge with colors and shapes you can't imagine. Add to that the delicious scents that the flower gives off, and you understand why this flower is so incredibly popular.

Types of peonies

You might think that the peony is related to the rose , but nothing could be further from the truth. The peony originally comes from China, from the Paeoniaceae family to be precise. There are more than 700 varieties of peonies, each with their own unique colors, scents and shapes. The best-known peony varieties are the following:

• Paeonia Duchesse de Nemours. The Duchesse de Nemours is the absolute number one peony: snow-white, exquisitely scented and, thanks to its average size, perfect for arranging. A favorite in every bridal bouquet!
• Paeonia Karl Rosenfield. The Karl Rosenfeld is a beautiful pink-purple flower that also grows well in the Netherlands. Also beautiful for your garden!
• Paeonia Candy Stripe. Fifty shades of pink, together in one flower. The pink and cherry red tones on the white background offer a unique spectacle every time. And also really unique because did you know that no two Candy Stripe peonies are the same?
• Paeonia Sarah Bernhardt. The Sarah Bernardt is also a well-known and extremely popular peony, named after the famous actress of the same name. You will immediately recognize this iconic flower by its lush pink color and large size.
• Paeonia Coral Charm. This peony variety charms like no other during flowering. The special thing about this flower is that it changes color. First it is coral, then light pink, then sweet red and then it ends white. What a spectacle!

Peonies in vase

Peonies look very beautiful in your garden, but are just as beautiful in a vase! Bouquets containing only peonies can be very serene and stylish, but you can also combine them with other flowers, such as sunflowers, tulips and chrysanthemums . Especially when you take good care of these flowers, they will brighten up your home like few other things can.

Peony care

Do you plant peonies in the garden? Remember that they are winter hardy, thrive in clay soil and can grow to a height of about one meter. Choose a sunny spot with nutrient-rich and moderately moist soil for these plants. A peony in the garden does not require much care, although it is better to provide plant food and support during flowering. In autumn it is best to prune them slightly above the ground.

Have you received a beautiful bouquet with peonies as cut flowers or have you brought it into your home? These tips will help you enjoy it the longest:

1. Always use a clean vase and place the flowers in clean water. This way, bacteria do not have a chance to attack the peonies.
2. Are the peonies still completely closed? Preferably use lukewarm water in your vase. Are they already in bloom? Then it is best to use (ice) cold water.
3. It is better to use a vase that seems a little too large than one that is on the small side. When the peonies hatch, they need quite a bit of space.
4. Cut about two to five inches off the stems. Do this at an angle and with a sharp (and clean) knife. This way the flower can best absorb water and plant food.
5. Peonies are heavy drinkers. Therefore, pay close attention to the water level and replenish the water every three to four days with good cold water and extra plant food.
6. Keep the vase out of the heat, so not in full sun or above a heater. Also choose a spot away from drafts and away from fruit, because the flowers cannot tolerate that well.
7. Are the peonies not coming out? Then it is good to know that these flowers naturally have a sticky sugar layer on their buds. This may cause the leaves to stick together too much. What you can do is hold the button upside down and then carefully rinse the sugar layer with lukewarm water. Not upright, because then the water will enter the flower. You will see that they will soon bloom.

Symbolism of the peony

Peonies are plants that are full of symbolism. He is named after Paeon, the talented student of Asclepius. According to Greek legend, Paeon was turned into a flower by Zeus as punishment for Asclepius' jealousy. That is why this flower is also attributed with healing powers! In addition to healing, the peony represents romance, steadfastness and long-lasting love. A peony can live up to a hundred years. That is why peonies are also favorite flowers for bridal bouquets!

A beautiful flower in bridal bouquets and for Mother's Day

Because of its stunning beauty, deep symbolism and the fact that it blooms in late spring, the peony is extremely popular in spring bouquets . Of course, it should not be missing from the flowers you give your mother for Mother's Day . And are you, like us, crazy about peonies and do you want these beautiful flowers at your wedding? Then plan your wedding at the end of May or in June and contact us. We provide a fairytale decoration for your wedding, including the most beautiful peonies in full bloom.