As the seasons change, so does nature's vibrant display of flowers, and amidst the most eagerly anticipated is the captivating peony. With its large, colourful, and fragrant blooms, this gorgeous plant is adored worldwide for its ability to bring joy and enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden or living space. Learn more about the optimal times to buy, present, and enjoy these resplendent blooms – and much more – in our article.
What should you know about peonies?
Peonies, esteemed for their sophisticated allure, are flowering plants distinguished by their delicate, abundant petals forming intricate and captivatingly showy blooms. Thriving in areas with temperate climates, they are not only garden favourites but are also cherished as cut flowers, lending an air of refinement to various floral arrangements and bouquets. These majestic flowers, which come in a wide array of exquisite colours and carry an enchanting subtle fragrance, are indeed a delight to behold. However, nature has chosen to keep this beauty brief, allowing us only a short time to enjoy the fleeting charm of peonies.
Stages of peony blooms
The peony flower goes through three stages in its development. At first, the bud resembles a small ball of marble, tough and hard to the touch. Then it enlarges and becomes like a marshmallow — soft and squishy; it is the ideal time to harvest peonies if you aim to extend their longevity in a vase. Finally, the bud opens and turns into a charming flower with numerous intricate petals and a subtle sweet aroma.
What is peony season?
The term refers to the timeframe when peonies, highly esteemed and refined flowering plants, are in their blooming phase. The precise timing fluctuates across different regions, resulting in some areas experiencing the magnificence of these exquisite flowers either earlier or later in the season; it is also defined by the particular plant variety. In general, the peony unfurls its delicate petals from the middle of spring, gracing gardens through early summer. Awaited with anticipation by both gardeners and florists, peony season brings the delight of indulging in these luxurious flowers, appreciated for the elegance of their opulent blooms and varied colour palettes (most often including white, red, yellow, and pink).
When does peony season start?
The onset of the peony flowering season is contingent upon a combination of factors, encompassing geographical placement, climate nuances, prevailing weather conditions, and the distinctive characteristics of the plant variety. In the Northern Hemisphere, one can typically witness the initial peony blossoms as early as April, whereas those situated in the Southern Hemisphere may delight in the first appearance of peonies around October.
When does peony season end?
Regrettably, the allure of these exquisite flowers is fleeting, gracing us with their presence for a mere 7–10 days. In the Northern Hemisphere, the final flourish of peonies happens toward the end of June, while in the Southern part of our planet, the last peony blooms can be observed in January.
What are the different types of peonies in season?
Peonies exhibit various classifications, with one notable categorisation based on the structure of their flowers. Single peonies showcase a straightforward design featuring only one or two layers of sizable petals; this arrangement allows for the prominent stamens positioned at the centre to be entirely visible. Japanese and Anemone varieties are characterised by their expansive outer petals, forming a sophisticated framework encircling a group of elongated, slender stamenode petals. Semi-double peony types reveal a graceful arrangement of numerous petal layers, gently exposing a central ring of stamens. Widely cherished and arguably the most favoured variety, double and bomb peonies boast lavish and voluminous blooms. Most stamens of these flowers have turned into petals, but those that remain are scarcely discernible without manually parting the petals.
Also, peonies can be divided into tree, herbaceous, and intersectional types. Tree peonies are robust shrubs with long stems visible year-round, embellished by massive flowers during their blooming phase. Herbaceous types are resilient perennials, with stems and foliage dying back each autumn to regenerate afresh in spring. Intersectional cultivars, also known as Itoh peonies, amalgamate the most desirable attributes of both aforementioned varieties, exhibiting grand blooms and revitalising with the advent of spring.
When is peony season in the UK?
The fleeting peony season in England and other parts of the UK spans only a brief period: these splendid blooms grace gardens and flower shops from April to June — much like in many other locations in the Northern Hemisphere. Nevertheless, UK florists make peonies available throughout the year by sourcing them from various regions.
Peony season around the world
In Ireland
Much like many regions in the northern part of the planet, peony season in Ireland lasts from late April to June. Nevertheless, florists ensure the year-round availability of these flowers by sourcing them from storage or alternative regions.
In New Zealand
In the Southern Hemisphere, the months of October and December typically mark the beginning and the end of peony season; NZ is no exception. Peonies in NZ primarily thrive in the cooler climates of the South Island, where the optimal conditions contribute to the growth of diverse varieties, showcasing an array of distinctive colours and shapes.
In Australia
When is peony season in Australia? Here, peonies typically bloom from late October to the middle of December. Naturally thriving only in regions with a cooler climate, these flowers nonetheless can be cultivated in any part of the country with specific care. During peony season, Sydney can boast a richer array of tree peonies, as they tend to grow better in the area than herbaceous cultivars. Peony season in Melbourne brings forth a greater variety, taking advantage of the region's more favourable climate for cultivating these plants. No matter your location in Australia, including cities like Sydney and Melbourne, you can easily buy exquisite peonies from flower shops and enjoy the splendour of these stunning flowers, whether delivered from other regions or grown under special conditions.
In the USA
During the peony flower season, the USA showcases a breathtaking array of these blooms, as the climate in many states contributes to their thriving. Typically, peonies display their vibrant blooms from April through June each year.
During peony season, NYC flower shops and gardens are adorned with the elegant colours of these sumptuous blooms, infusing the cityscape with natural splendour. The peony season in California enchants with beauty, featuring varieties adapted to milder climates (for instance, Itoh or intersectional peonies) that grace the surroundings with a brief yet mesmerising bloom. The peony season in Texas is also breathtaking; although the warmer climate in the region presents a slight challenge for the flowering of peonies, specific varieties of these elegant plants can thrive in certain parts of the state with some care.
Regardless of your location in the USA – NYC, California, Texas, or elsewhere – you can enjoy almost year-round access to peonies, thanks to florists who source them from different regions or cultivate them under special conditions.
In Singapore
The climate conditions within the country are less than favourable for the thriving cultivation of peonies. Nonetheless, these blooms can be available in local flower shops, as florists often import them from different areas experiencing the peony season. In Singapore, the perfect times to revel in these charming flowers are from April to June and from October to December, when peonies can be sourced in abundance from northern or southern regions, respectively.
In Japan
The precise timing of peony bloom in Japan may vary with regional and climatic nuances, but these lush flowers typically unfold their beauty in April and May; nevertheless, there exist uncommon artificially cultivated winter peonies, blooming fully in January and February. Esteemed in Japanese culture, peonies take centre stage during these months. Throughout the peony season, Japan's gardens and notable venues showcase vibrant displays of these majestic blooms, attracting visitors eager to revel in their allure.
In South Africa
While peonies are not native to the Southern Hemisphere, many locations in this part of our planet can, nonetheless, delight in the captivating peony season. South Africa is one of them, benefiting from its several areas with the necessary cold conditions for successfully cultivating these wonderful flowers. In this region, peonies are usually in bloom from late October to December.
In Malaysia
As peonies are naturally adapted to temperate areas, Malaysia, with its tropical climate, poses challenges to the natural cultivation of these delightful flowers. However, these exquisite plants can be cultivated in controlled environments or sourced from regions more conducive to their growth, allowing those located in Malaysia to revel in the splendour of peonies despite the climatic conditions.
When to give peony flowers
Peonies stand as the very embodiment of happiness, affection, and prosperity, rendering them an ideal token for diverse celebrations. Whether you're marking birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries, these delightful blooms effortlessly convey genuine emotions, bringing joy to those dear to you. Additionally, presenting peonies to celebrate achievements like graduations or promotions symbolises best wishes for ongoing success and a flourishing future. The gift of peonies goes beyond a mere bouquet, expressing enduring beauty and good fortune, which makes it a perfect gesture for celebrating life's milestones.
How to make peonies last long in a vase
Taking care of these majestic flowers might seem like a daunting task initially, but in reality, tending to peonies is a breeze with a few simple tricks.
- To enjoy the peony in season longer, start by selecting buds that haven't fully opened yet; opt for ones that feel soft to the touch, indicating they're on the verge of blossoming. When arranging them, choose a spacious vase to allow the peonies room to flourish.
- Before placing the flowers in water, give the stems a trim at an angle: this step enhances water and nutrient absorption, contributing to an extended vase life. Trim the stems whenever you change the water: preferably, do this daily or every other day. Keeping the vase clean is essential, as well as removing any leaves that might dip into the water.
- Consider adding flower food to the mix: you can either purchase a ready-made solution or whip up your own. Another tip is to place your peonies in a cool spot, away from drafts, and shielded from direct sunlight.
Interesting facts about peony blooms
- In antiquity, the peony was revered for its perceived healing prowess, credited with the potential to ease asthma and alleviate headaches. Traditional Chinese Medicine extensively incorporated peony roots for diverse therapeutic purposes.
- Cultivated in China for over two millennia, peonies stand proudly as one of the nation's emblems, with their Chinese name translating to 'the most beautiful'.
- A mature peony plant can yield over 50 blossoms during a single growing season, with the size of the blooms increasing as the plant ages.
- Woody peonies boast impressive longevity, thriving for a span of more than 100 years, whereas herbaceous cultivars can endure for 80 years or beyond.
