Species peony
reddish-pink, large flowers with yellow, dense stamens, dark-green, shiny, lanceolate leaves, and green, shiny stem

peony

Paeonia 'Scarlett O'Hara'

Peony (Paeonia 'Scarlett O'Hara') is a classic hybrid variety with eye-catching scarlet flowers. It is a large deciduous shrub and produces many bowl-shaped, fragrant blooms in late spring or early summer. A vigorous grower, Peony 'Scarlett O'Hara' grows to be about 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, with a spread of 3 to 5 feet. The foliage is dense and lush and has a pleasant grey-green colour, making it a decorative addition to any garden. It's hardy in USDA Zones 3-7 and its fragrant blooms make it a mainstay in any flowerbed.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Crown Division

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Red Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

red,yellow,purple

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Peony (Paeonia 'Scarlett O'Hara') needs to be watered an adequate amount on a regular basis in order to thrive. Water approximately once a week and make sure to keep the soil evenly moist but not outrageously soggy. You can test the moisture level of the soil by sticking your finger about 1 inch into the soil. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Peonies prefer to be watered early in the day to ensure that any wet foliage is dried to avoid disease.

sunlight

Peony (Paeonia 'Scarlett O'Hara') is best grown in a location that receives full sun or nearly full sun for at least part of the day. This plant prefers 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to maintain a healthy, bushy growth habit, with morning light being best as it helps to dry foliage. The more shade the Peony receives, the fewer blooms it will produce. It is important to keep in mind, however, that the sunniest spot in your garden may be too hot for planted Peony and it's best to find an area with dappled sunlight for the guide.

pruning

Peonies should be pruned when the plants are dormant in late autumn or winter, usually around November. Pruning consists of removing dead, damaged, or diseased stems and also any crowded or crossing branches. Many hybrid peonies will benefit from removing some of the old wood, usually up to 1 third of the total branches, to encourage rejuvenation and promote larger and more flower-filled branches for the following year. To prune Scarlett O'Hara peonies, cut the stems as close to the ground as possible and remove about 1 third of older branches.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Peonies typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Peonies typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Is the Peony popular flower in Canada?

Yes, the peony is a popular flower in Canada. It is highly prized for its showy blooms and long-lasting beauty. Peonies have been cultivated in Canada for centuries, and their popularity is due in part to their long-lasting blooms and hardiness in colder temperatures. Peonies are a popular choice in Canadian gardens, and flower arrangements. They are also used in bouquets and centerpieces, where their stunning colors really shine.

Are Peonies fragrant?

Yes, peonies are quite fragrant. Depending on the variety of peony, the scent can be described as sweet, floral, and citrusy. Some of the most popular and aromatic varieties of peony include 'Pillow Talk', 'Fairy Tale', and the 'Duchess De Nemours'. Peonies are often used in floral arrangements and can even be grown in your garden for a fresh, summery scent.

Can Peonies be grown in partial shade?

Yes, peonies can be grown in partial shade. While they require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day during the first half of the growing season, the second half is best if the plants can receive a few hours of shade. As long as the area is not completely shaded, the peonies should do well. These plants are also hardy, so they can generally thrive in a variety of locations.

Do Peonies require well-drained soil?

Yes, peonies do require well-drained soil in order to grow and flourish. Planting them in heavy clay soil can cause the roots to rot, as the soil will stay wet for too long. To ensure good drainage and aeration, it is recommended that the soil is amended with organic matter like compost or peat moss. The soil should also be slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Additionally, peonies may need to be watered more often during the summer, as they are prone to wilt in hot temperatures.

Should Peonies be staked to prevent damage?

Yes, it is a good idea to stake peonies to prevent damages. Peonies are naturally tall and floppy flowers and as such, can easily be damaged by strong winds and heavy rain. Staking is a great way to keep tall peonies from sprawling or falling over which could damage the stems or flowers. When staking your peony, use tall, sturdy stakes that support the main stem of the plant. You can use metal or bamboo stakes, but be sure to avoid stakes with sharp edges or points as those could damage the plant or injure those tending the garden. Utilizing a supporting structure for your peony will help it to look its best.

Is the Peony a long-lived perennial plant?

Yes, the Peony is a long-lived perennial plant. It can live for more than 20 years in the proper conditions, and can even last for generations with proper care and maintenance. Peonies prefer cooler climates, and well-drained soil with a relatively high pH level. They will grow to approximately 2 -3 feet in height, with heart-shaped foliage and blooms in shades of white, pink, and red. Peonies typically bloom in late spring or early summer months and make an excellent addition to any garden.