Paeonia suffruticosa Red - Tree Peony

Paeonia suffruticosa Red is a shrubby peony with solitary, double flowers of a carmine-red colour, adorned with yellow stamens. These wide-cupped flowers measure 15 to 18 cm (6 to 7 in) in diameter, blooming from mid-May to mid-June and perched on upright stems. Some consider shrubby peonies to be the epitome of refinement.

Growing fairly slowly, this very hardy shrub reaches a height of 1.5-2 m (5-7 ft). The deciduous leaves are composed of nine lanceolate leaflets, which are very smooth and brownish-green at bud burst and then tender green with a bluish reverse.

Originally from East Asia, Paeonia suffruticosa is more delicate than herbaceous varieties: it likes sheltered situations, especially from cold winds. It grows in partial shade but tolerates non-burning sunlight, and thrives in rich, deep, humus-bearing, moist, acidic, and light soil. It does not tolerate limestone and grows poorly in heavy soils.

In the garden, Paeonia suffruticosa Red can be used individually against a wall or hedge or in a mass planting, under tall trees, but always sheltered from the wind and in airy, bright locations. Peonies can be combined with other perennials that flower before or after them, such as grasses, roses, iris, or bellflowers.