Peony
Peonies are round and full flowers with a dense cluster of small, ruffled petals reaching outward. Traditionally a spring and early-summer flower, peony bouquets are wonderful for any occasion where their bright colors and pleasing fragrance can help lift the mood. Flowers are solitary at stem ends, single or double with many petals, 2-5 plus inches (5-13 cm) across. This flower grows in many different colors, including white, pink, yellow, red, burgundy, rose, salmon and maroon. Before being processed, Peonies should still be in their little bud form. But a golf-ball size peony can open up to three times its size in just a day or two. And you’ll get to watch them bloom into all their glory!
Family: Paeoniaceae
Species: Paeonia lactiflora
Origin: Native to Asia
Symbolizes: Peonies are known to represent romance, prosperity, good fortune, a happy marriage, riches, honor and compassion.
Also Known As: Peony, Paeonia
Care, Handling & Design
Temperature: 34-38F (1-3C)
Humidity: 75-85%
Water: Medium water quality. Avoid softened water.
Vase Life: 5-8 days
What to Look for When Purchasing
When purchasing Peonies, they should still be in their little bud form, show a bit of color and be somewhat hard. Peonies will last longest when bought or harvested while they're still in bud form. Don't be afraid to gently touch the buds before buying—if they're soft (think the texture of a marshmallow), that means they're close to opening. Avoid ones that feel hard like a marble because they may not be developed enough to open once picked. Buds aren't always pretty, and slight deformities—like little brown spots—are normal. Look for mechanical damage on the blooms or stems. Also look for discolored buds (outer petal).
Foam Info
Try to choose flowers with strong sturdy stems. Use high density foam to support the large peony flowers.
Design Tips
Peonies are breathtaking in any arrangement styling. Elegant and long-lasting, use peonies as a focal or mixed with other flowers for a soft, romantic look. Be sure to cut stems at an angle before inserting into foam
Ethylene Sensitivity
Topic is up for debate. Petal shattering observed in some varieties suggesting ethylene sensitivity.
Pest & Disease Information
Vulnerable to botrytis. Never store flowers wet. Use anti-botrytis products.
Troubleshooting
Stem bending due to flowers being too large. Look for strong stems when you source them. Petal browning. Blooms not opening because they were harvested too early. If they feel hard as a rock when you buy them, they will most likely not open.
Product Usage
For optimal care of Peony, please reference the chart of products below. Make sure to select your region to see which products are available.