Paeonia lactiflora Doreen

Paeonia lactiflora 'Doreen' is a variety of Japanese type with vigorous growth. This hardy and very robust perennial plant blooms in the heart of spring. Its flowers are a very bright pink, with their centre occupied by numerous golden petaloid stamens, densely and closely implanted. They perfume the house and the garden.

Chinese herbaceous peonies are mainly derived from Paeonia lactiflora, a perennial herbaceous plant native to central and eastern Asia (from eastern Tibet, northern China, to eastern Siberia), where it naturally grows in woods and meadows. This plant belongs to the Ranunculaceae or Paeoniaceae Family. Herbaceous peonies, perennial by virtue of their roots, form a clump of foliage that completely disappears in winter.

Paeonia lactiflora 'Doreen' has been awarded by the British RHS for its ornamental qualities and its performance in the garden. The leaves of this Chinese Peony are dark green, composed of slightly dentate oval leaflets. Taking 4 to 5 years to reach its adult size, it can reach 1m (3ft) in height. This variety blooms in May-June, more or less early depending on the climate. Its flowers measure about 15 cm (6in) in diameter and they are very fragrant. They are carried on solid reddish stems. The vegetation disappears in winter, while the buds persist at ground level and develop in spring. This very long-lived plant grows from a large fleshy root that does not appreciate being moved.

Peonies are one of those plants that form the basis of a garden. Striking and fragrant, the 'Doreen' peony can be grown in a bed or alongside a pathway, associated with timeless and unpretentious perennials such as Tall Irises, Columbines, Perennial Geraniums, Carnations, or Christmas Roses. It can also be grown in the vegetable garden to supply cut flowers for the house. It fits perfectly beside a path, at the base of trained fruit trees. Only pot cultivation is not recommended, as its needs will not be met. Over time peonies becomes majestic and bloom more and more abundantly, producing up to 60 flowers. By associating different varieties with staggered flowering, it is possible to have flowers for 6 weeks from spring to early summer.

The Paeonia is a symbol of wealth and honour in China, where it has been cultivated for over 2000 years.

Our bouquet tip: Cut your peonies at sunrise, when the buds start to colour.