Paeonia Suffruticosa Tree Peony - Various Colours

Tree Peony or Paeonia Suffruticosa also Moutan Peony
Tree peonies are grown for their truly spectacular flowers which arrive around springtime. The Peony (Paeonia) family consists of mostly herbaceous perennials while the Tree Peony’s distinctive feature is its bush or tree shape and its woody stems in winter which allow it to survive above ground. The Paeonia Suffruticosa Tree Peony is the variety most frequently purchased in the UK.

The Paeonia × suffruticosa variety is a name used for a group of varieties that are all hybridised.  There are several species producing differing flower colours. All are spectacular. Paeonia Suffruticosa originated in West China. These bushy Moutan Peonies are winter-hardy and produce spectacular flowers in a range of colors: white, yellow, red, all shades of pink and purple.

Tree Peonies are generally slow to grow and can be quite slow to have flowers. They hate to be moved. They must have full sun, well-drained soil and a sheltered spot. Given this they will reward with truly stunning flowers.

Height and Spread of Tree Peony
Moutan Peony is a slow-growing branching shrub that will grow to be up to 2 metres high.

How Hardy is Tree Peony
One of the best things about Paeonia Suffruticosa is its superior hardiness. The woody stems are fully winter hardy, but the young foliage and buds can be susceptible to damage by night frost. Consider protecting with fleece or sacking if temperatures are extreme.

How To Use Tree Peony
In May, Tree Peonies produce large flowers up to 15 centimetres across. The contrast between the deep green deciduous foliage and vibrant blossoms is show-stopping, and it makes these compact trees a great choice for a shrub hedge or on their own, near a patio or grown under a window. Just have in mind that, until established, Tree Peonies are slow to flower. It may take up to 3 years before your new plant produces its first blossoms!

How To Care For Tree Peony
To make sure your Tree Peonies thrive, provide a sheltered spot in full sun and well-drained soil. Tree Peonies are not picky about the type of soil but dislike boggy areas.

More about Tree Peonies on our blog post.