Perfect for the picking
2025-10-15T09:58:51+11:00
Peonies are coveted for their beauty but are also famously temperamental. In our November issue, Jennifer Stackhouse reveals the secrets to cultivating these herbaceous flowers and showcases some stunning varieties.
Three distinct forms of peony are grown in gardens but the large, ruffled romantic flower that looks like a cross between a full-blown rose and an oriental poppy is the herbaceous or Chinese peony. Its blooms – which can be up to 20cm across – come in pastel tones including pinks and corals as well as white and deep reds. Some are scented – an added bonus.
Herbaceous peonies look dazzling planted in bold drifts or, for a classic display, can be woven among spring bulbs, irises, delphiniums and shrub roses. True to their name, these herbaceous plants die back after flowering, before re-emerging in late winter with striking red-tinged shoots. Growing peonies is a lesson in patience. “You wait three to four years for that first bloom and their fleeting beauty makes them all the more treasured,” says Jen Foster from Southern Highlands Flower Farm in New South Wales. There are hundreds of peony varieties – here are three of Jennifer’s favourites.
Coral Charm
This early-flowering hybrid has coral-coloured, semi-double flowers. A good choice for beginners.
Etched Salmon Bearing salmon-pink double blooms, this variety (below, left) is new to Australia and can be hard to find. It flowers mid-season.
Lemon Chiffon
This variety (below, right) bears semi double to double blooms. It flowers early-to-mid-season.
For Jennifer’s tips on how to grow peonies, plus more beautiful varieties, get the November issue of ABC Gardening Australia magazine – on sale now!
