The World of the Peony (V)

Herbaceous peonies

Only a few species are commercially available, as many are difficult to cultivate. The wild peonies mentioned in the following are, however, robust vigorous garden plants which give great pleasure to their owners and are highly recommended for home gardens.

 

Paeonia officinalis near Prati di Tivio in its wild habitat, in the background the Gran Sasso d'Italia in the Abruzzi mountains. The wild form of the herbaceous Paeonia officinalis has single dark crimson red flowers. ( It is the parent of the bright red double 'Crofter's peony'.) Foto: Prof. Gian Lupo Osti

Paeonia officinalis from a place in the southern Alps. Paeonia officinalis blooms at this place in many different forms and colours from the lightest rose to dark red. One of the beautifulst place for wild peonies. Foto: Erich Pasche

Paeonia tenuifolia is also suitable for the rock garden. This small peony with its bright red flowers has the finest foliage of all peonies. Here is the double form shortly before unfurling. Foto:W. Good

Paeonia peregrina from the Balkans has relatively small bowl-like flowers of salmon red to bright red. Beautiful specimens can be obtained on the market under the name of 'Otto Froebel'. Foto: K. Furrer Good

Paeonia clusii from Crete was first described by Carolus Clusius who found this fine peony during one of his botanical expeditions. Paenoia clusii is in central Europe not hardy, but it is a fine peony for the southwest of the USA with its warm and dry climate. Foto: Irmtraud Rieck

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