Contents
Description
Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff is a stunning herbaceous perennial that is highly prized for its large, fragrant pink flowers. This plant is native to China, and has been cultivated for thousands of years for its ornamental and medicinal properties. The flowers of Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff are typically 6-8 inches wide, and they bloom in late spring or early summer. The plant itself can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide, and has a bushy, upright habit.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Saxifragales |
Family | Paeoniaceae |
Genus | Paeonia |
Appearance
Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff has large, fragrant pink flowers that are typically 6-8 inches wide. The flowers are double-petaled, with many layers of petals that give them a full, luscious appearance. The petals are a soft pink color, with darker pink veins that add depth and dimension to the flower. The plant itself has a bushy, upright habit, and can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide. The leaves are dark green, and are deeply lobed, giving them a beautiful, ornamental appearance.
Care Guide
To care for Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff, it is important to provide it with regular water, fertilization, and well-draining soil. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. To fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer in early spring, and again in early fall. Avoid fertilizing during the summer months, as this can cause the plant to produce weak growth that is susceptible to disease and pests.
Common Pests & Diseases
Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including botrytis blight, powdery mildew, and root rot. To prevent these problems, it is important to provide the plant with good air circulation, and to avoid overwatering. If you notice any signs of disease or pests, treat the plant immediately with a fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff is native to China, but is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes around the world. It prefers well-draining soil, and can be grown in full sun to partial shade. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8, and can tolerate cold temperatures and frost.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, and more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Q: Can I grow Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container, but make sure the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: When should I prune Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff?
A: Prune the plant in early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged wood, and cut back any stems that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Q: How can I propagate Paeonia Lactiflora Lady Alexandra Duff?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in early spring or fall. Dig up the plant, and carefully separate the root system into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil, and water deeply.
Related Plants
- Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Karl Rosenfield’
- Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Sarah Bernhardt’
- Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Bowl of Beauty’
- Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Festiva Maxima’
References
- “Paeonia lactiflora”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 19 May 2021.
- “Paeonia lactiflora ‘Lady Alexandra Duff'”. RHS. Retrieved 19 May 2021.
- “Growing Peonies: How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Peony Flowers”. Old Farmer’s Almanac. Retrieved 19 May 2021.