Paeonia Lactiflora Sarah Bernhardt

Description

Paeonia Lactiflora Sarah Bernhardt, commonly known as the Sarah Bernhardt peony, is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Paeoniaceae family. It is known for its large, fragrant, and pink double blooms that measure up to 8 inches in diameter. Sarah Bernhardt peonies bloom in late spring to early summer and last for up to two weeks. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Sarah Bernhardt peony has large, double, and fragrant pink blooms that measure up to 8 inches in diameter. The blooms are supported by strong stems that can hold their weight without bending. The plant grows up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width, and its foliage is dark green and deeply lobed. The plant produces a large number of blooms per stem, and its flowers have a long vase life, making it a popular choice for cut flowers.

Care Guide

Sarah Bernhardt peonies are easy to care for, and they require little maintenance once established. Here are some care tips:

Water: Peonies prefer moist soil, and they should be watered regularly during the growing season. Make sure the soil is well-draining to avoid root rot.

Fertilization: Peonies should be fertilized in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to weak stems and fewer blooms.

Soil: Peonies prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They do best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

Sunlight: Peonies require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. They can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can result in fewer blooms.

Hardiness Zones: Sarah Bernhardt peonies are hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Sarah Bernhardt peonies are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of them:

Pests: Peonies can be attacked by ants, but they are not harmful to the plant. The ants are attracted to the nectar produced by the buds and do not harm the flowers. Other pests that can affect peonies include spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips.

Diseases: Peonies can be affected by botrytis blight, which causes the flowers to turn brown and mushy. Powdery mildew can also affect peonies, causing a white powdery coating on the leaves. Crown rot is another problem that can affect peonies if the soil is too wet.

Habitat

Sarah Bernhardt peonies are native to China, and they are commonly grown in gardens all around the world. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8 and can grow in a variety of soil types.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Sarah Bernhardt peony?

A: Peonies prefer moist soil, and they should be watered regularly during the growing season. Make sure the soil is well-draining to avoid root rot.

Q: Can Sarah Bernhardt peonies be grown in a container?

A: Yes, Sarah Bernhardt peonies can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Make sure the soil is well-draining and fertilize regularly.

Q: Do I need to deadhead my Sarah Bernhardt peony?

A: Deadheading is not necessary for Sarah Bernhardt peonies, but it can encourage more blooms to form. Simply snip off the spent blooms after they have faded.

Q: When is the best time to plant Sarah Bernhardt peonies?

A: The best time to plant Sarah Bernhardt peonies is in the fall, about 6 to 8 weeks before the first frost. This allows the roots to establish before winter.

Related Plants

Here are some other popular peonies:

• Paeonia lactiflora
• Paeonia ‘Karl Rosenfield’
• Paeonia ‘Bowl of Beauty’
• Paeonia ‘Coral Charm’
• Paeonia ‘Festiva Maxima’

References

• “Paeonia lactiflora ‘Sarah Bernhardt'” Missouri Botanical Garden
• “Sarah Bernhardt Peony” The Spruce
• “Peonies: Planting, Growing, and Caring for Peonies” Old Farmer’s Almanac