A marvellous peony producing spectacular clusters of large, fragrant, clear yellow flowers with an attractive red flare at the base of the petals. The green leaves take on brilliant bronze hues in autumn. Flowers May-June (and mature plants may re-bloom in August). Height 90cm. Root size I. Peony Tree (Paeonia suffruticosa)
- The tree peony was originally developed by the Chinese over a thousand years ago, & then further developed by the Japanese. The first specimens were introduced into Britain in the 18th century, & more were collected between 1843 & 1862 by the Victorian botanist Robert Fortune. Unlike their herbaceous cousins, they do not die down each autumn, but instead grow into large shrubs, & they boast beautifully dissected foliage & flowers that are so large & layered that they almost don't seem quite real. Paeonia (peony) plants are a traditional mainstay of the English cottage garden border, their voluptuous blooms evocative of another era. They're hardy, very easy to grow, relatively drought-tolerant & will put on an annual performance for decades to come. Ideal for cutting, they come in an awe-inspiring range of shapes & colours.