Paeonia x lactiflora Carl G. Klehm - Chinese Peony

The 'Carl G. Klehm' peony (Paeonia lactiflora) is a remarkable herbaceous peony known for its enormous, very double, pale pink flowers, as well as its vigour and robustness. This cultivar is also highly valued for its versatility, performing well both in the ground and as a cut flower. It is a spectacular Chinese peony that typically blooms in June.

Chinese peonies are herbaceous perennial plants mainly derived from Paeonia lactiflora, a species native to central and eastern Asia (from eastern Tibet and northern China to eastern Siberia). In the wild, this peony grows in woodlands and meadows. It belongs to the Paeoniaceae family.

The 'Carl G. Klehm' peony was selected in the United States by breeder Roy Klehm and registered in 2017. This cultivar is distinguished by its impressive stature, reaching a height and width of 95 cm. The plant has thick, sturdy stems that support large, fully double "rose" type flowers. The large pale pink flower buds change colour as they age, becoming cream white. Some flowers may have streaks of pinkish-red on the central petals. Each stem carries an average of three to four lateral buds, enhancing the density and beauty of the bloom. The dark green foliage is dense and attractive, reinforcing the robust and vigorous appearance of the plant. The flowering of the 'Carl G. Klehm' peony is very slightly fragrant. The foliage disappears in winter, while the buds persist at ground level and will develop in spring. This very perennial plant grows from a large, fleshy root that does not appreciate being moved.

Peonies are among those plants that form the foundation of a garden. In the past, every garden, from the humblest to the most elaborate, showcased clumps of flowers in spring that made their way into the house, accompanying the mauve lilacs and the blue bellflowers in every bouquet. Impressive, the 'Carl G. Klehm' peony can be planted in borders or along pathways, paired with columbines, bellflowers, and other phlox. It can also contribute to the flower supply for bouquets in the vegetable garden. Cultivating it in a pot is not recommended as its needs will not be met. Over time, the peony becomes majestic and blooms more abundantly, producing up to 60 flowers.