Did you know?

■ Peonies are named after Paeon, physician of the gods in Greek mythology.

■ Peonies have been cultivated in China since the 6th century, and remain an important symbol in Chinese culture.

They arrived in the West around 1784 when breeding began in earnest, especially in France.

■ They are long-lived and can survive for more than 50 years.

■ Nectar forms on the outside of the flower buds. This attracts ants, which are harmless.