Paeonia lactiflora Do Tell

The Do Tell Peony is an herbaceous perennial of Japanese form. Its upright stems are spotted with red. It has magnificent flowering in April, composed of elegant large single flowers. It is a particularly floriferous variety and has a pleasant fragrance. The petals are a pale pink and surround lilac pink petaloids (long stamens). They turn white towards the end of flowering. The flowers measure 7 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) in diameter. They are solitary.

The foliage of the Paeonia is deciduous. The leaves are dark green on top and paler, slightly furry, on the underside. They are composed of nine elliptical leaflets and have a rough edge. At maturity, the Peony reaches a height of 80 cm (32in).

Originating from China, it is a very hardy perennial. It is used in gardens in borders, beds, or as a standalone plant. It pairs well with other perennials and also in flowerbeds with grasses. They make excellent cut flowers. The Paeonia Do Tell was created in 1946. This variety was featured on the cover of the book "Peonies" by Rock Giguère and in the inner plate of the book by Jean-Luc Rivière with the same title. Herbaceous peonies remind us of the scent and beauty of our grandparents' gardens, where they were often present.