Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm

Description

Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm, also known as Coral Charm Peony, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the family Paeoniaceae. It is native to China and is widely cultivated in Europe and North America for its beautiful flowers. The plant grows up to 3 feet in height and has dark green leaves with a length of up to 10 inches. The flowers are large and showy, with a diameter of up to 8 inches and a range of colors from coral pink to peach and apricot. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer and attracts bees and butterflies.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm plant has a bushy and upright growth habit. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and deeply lobed. The flowers are large, fragrant, and double-bloomed, with 25-40 petals arranged in a cup shape. The color of the flowers changes as they mature, starting from coral pink and fading into a peachy hue with apricot undertones. The plant produces several flower buds per stem, and each bud can develop into a full bloom. The plant has a long lifespan of up to 50 years and can be propagated through division.

Care Guide

The Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm plant requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall to prepare for dormancy. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, and repeat after the plant has finished blooming. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid stimulating excessive leaf growth.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level should be neutral to slightly acidic (6.5-7.0).
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to bloom properly.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 3-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm plant is generally disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as botrytis blight and leaf blotch. It can also be attacked by pests such as aphids, thrips, and spider mites. Here are some ways to prevent and treat these issues:

• Botrytis Blight: Remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering.
• Leaf Blotch: Remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Spray with a fungicide if necessary.
• Aphids: Spray with a strong jet of water to dislodge the insects. Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
• Thrips: Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove infected plant parts.
• Spider Mites: Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increase humidity around the plant.

Habitat

The Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm plant is native to China and is widely cultivated in Europe and North America. It prefers cool climates and can survive in a variety of soil types. The plant is often grown in gardens as an ornamental plant, and its flowers are used in floral arrangements and bouquets.

Question and Answer

Q: How long does the Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm plant bloom?
A: The plant blooms in late spring to early summer for about 2 weeks.

Q: How often should I fertilize the Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm plant?
A: Fertilize the plant twice a year, in the spring and after blooming.

Q: Can the Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm plant grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the roots.

Q: How do I propagate the Paeonia Lactiflora Coral Charm plant?
A: The plant can be propagated through division. Dig up the plant in the fall and separate the roots into sections that have at least one bud each. Replant the sections in well-draining soil.

Related Plants

• Paeonia Lactiflora
• Paeonia Suffruticosa
• Paeonia Officinalis

References

• “Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Coral Charm'” Missouri Botanical Garden
• “Coral Charm Peony” American Peony Society
• “Peony Diseases and Pests” University of Minnesota Extension
• “Peony Care” Better Homes & Gardens