Peony at a glance
| Botanical name | Paeonia lactiflora |
|---|---|
| Family | Paeoniaceae |
| Other names | garden peony, Chinese peony |
| Plant type | Flower; herbaceous perennial |
| Size | 1 to 3 feet tall and wide |
| Light | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sun); Part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun) |
| Water | Water in dry spells, especially in the first year. |
| Soil | Well-drained, fertile soil. |
| USDA hardiness zones | Hardy in zones 3 to 8. They need winter cold to flower well. |
| USDA PLANTS symbol | PALA27 |
When to plant peony
Plant bare roots in fall.
How to grow peony
- Choose a sunny spot with good air flow; peonies dislike being moved.
- Plant the root with its buds (eyes) no more than about 2 inches below the soil surface; deeper planting is a common reason for no flowers.
- Water well after planting.
- Add hoops or supports in spring for heavy-flowered types.
- Cut stems to the ground in fall.
Water and soil
Water: Water in dry spells, especially in the first year.
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil.
Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sun); Part shade (2 to 6 hours of sun).
Common problems
- No flowers
- Often from planting too deep, too much shade, or a recent move.
- Botrytis blight
- Buds turn brown and fail in wet weather. Clean up stems in fall and improve air flow.
- Ants on buds
- Ants feed on the sugary buds and do no harm.
Is peony safe for cats and dogs?
Toxic
Toxic
The ASPCA lists Peony (Paeonis officinalis) as toxic to cats and toxic to dogs. Signs it lists include: vomiting, diarrhea, depression. ASPCA entry.
If a pet chews a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435; a fee may apply). For people, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. In an emergency, call 911.
Can you eat peony?
Not edible.
Peony questions
Are peonies toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists peony as toxic to cats and dogs; it can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Why is my peony not blooming?
The most common causes are planting too deep, too much shade, or a recent move. Peonies may take a couple of years to bloom after planting.
Do I need to remove ants from peonies?
No. Ants visit the buds for their sugary coating and do not harm the plant.
Sources
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Paeonia lactiflora (size, light, soil, zones, poison rating)
- USDA PLANTS Database profile: Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (accepted name)
- ASPCA: Peony (pet toxicity)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to cats
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs
Written in our own words from the sources above. See our editorial policy. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
