Admired in gardens for more than 600 years, these floral favourites form dome-shaped, shrublike structures that emerge in spring and die back during winter.
Peonies offer some of the largest and blousiest blooms in the plant world, but don’t be misled by their delicate charm. When planted in a sunny location in fertile, welldrained soil, they produce wondrously striking displays through spring and early summer.
One consideration to bear in mind: peonies are said to resent being moved, so think before you plant.
Only growing to 2ft (60cm) tall, this generous specimen flowers profusely on straight stems and makes a great low-growing, herbaceous shrub for a sunny border.The large, brilliant-white, cup-shaped blossoms contrast beautifully against dark green leaves. The smaller, rounded form makes this variety an excellent choice for a colourful patio pot. Spread 2ft 6in (75cm).
This variety has large herbaceous leaves and anemone-shaped, salmonpink blossoms through late spring and early summer. At the centre of each delicately scented, goblet-shaped bloom, the unusually coloured single petals are pinned together with masses of cream and pink stamens, all adding to this peony’s striking luminosity. Height and spread 3ft 3in (1m).