PAEONIA lactiflora 'Bowl of Beauty'

Paeonia lactiflora 'Bowl of Beauty'



Native to central and eastern Asia, the habitat for Paeonia lactiflora ranges from eastern Tibet across northern China to eastern Siberia. It is one of 33 species of hardy herbaceous and shrubby perennials, and was first known as the white peony (P. albiflora) when it was first introduced into Europe. When it finally reached the gardens of England during the mid-18th century, its prolific blooms became became an instant for the early cut-flower business.

The true species of Paeonia lactiflora is rarely grown now as it has been superseded by hardy garden forms - one of the most eye catching being the sumptuous cultivar Peony 'Bowl of Beauty'.

Paeonia lactiflora 'Bowl of Beauty' - http://www.rhsplants.co.uk/
Peony 'Bowl of Beauty' is an herbaceous perennial that will grow to a height of up to 3 ft tall. It produces mid-green, divided leaves, but more importantly, delicious, cupped, cerise-pink flowers that can grow to an impressive 8 inches wide. Inside of each bloom is a central mass of narrow, creamy-white petaloids.

It performs best when planted into a deep, fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained. Avoid planting peonies too deeply as it can take a few years to settle in before it begins to flower. Sometimes it is best just to have it slightly raised in the new soil level. In my experience, planting this way has away resulted in flowers during the very next season.

To save damage to these delicate flowers, choose a sheltered position in full sun or partial shade. Be aware that the blooms on Peony 'Bowl of Beauty' are huge and as such can weighed down on the stems which can subsequently break them in wet or windy weather. Therefore, mature specimens may well need additional support.

Paeonia lactiflora 'Bowl of Beauty' has been given the 'Award of Garden Merit' by the Royal Horticultural Society.

For related articles click onto:
HOW TO OVERWINTER TREE PEONIES
HOW TO GROW PEONIES
HOW TO GROW PEONIES FROM SEED
HOW TO GROW THE TREE PEONY

No comments: