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Description
Paeonia Officinalis, commonly known as common peony or European peony, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the family Paeoniaceae. It is native to Southern Europe and Western Asia and has been cultivated for its ornamental and medicinal properties for centuries. The plant produces large, fragrant flowers in shades of pink, red, or white that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by seed pods that split open to reveal shiny black seeds. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus | Paeonia |
Appearance
The common peony plant can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide. It has large, glossy green leaves that are deeply lobed and divided into smaller leaflets. The flowers are typically five to six inches wide and have a cup-shaped form with numerous petals. The petals are often ruffled and can be single, semi-double, or double. The flowers are usually pink, red, or white, but can also be yellow or purple. The plant blooms for about two weeks in late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Water: Peonies prefer well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring before the plant begins to grow. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10.
Soil: Peonies prefer rich, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should be well-draining and amended with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Sunlight: Peonies prefer full sun to partial shade. They will tolerate some shade, but may not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones: Peonies are hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The common peony plant is relatively disease-resistant, but it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as botrytis blight and verticillium wilt. Pests such as spider mites, thrips, and nematodes may also infest the plant. Treat fungal diseases with a fungicide and pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The common peony plant is native to Southern Europe and Western Asia, where it grows in open woodlands, meadows, and scrublands. It is commonly cultivated in gardens and parks for its ornamental and medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the common peony plant toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the common peony plant is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Q: When is the best time to plant common peony?
A: The best time to plant common peony is in the fall or early spring when the soil is cool and moist.
Q: How often should I divide my common peony plant?
A: Common peony plants should be divided every five to ten years to maintain their vigor and flowering. Divide in the fall after the foliage has died back.
Q: Can I grow common peony in a container?
A: Yes, common peony can be grown in a large container as long as it has adequate drainage and soil depth.
Related Plants
- Paeonia lactiflora
- Paeonia suffruticosa
- Paeonia tenuifolia
- Paeonia veitchii
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Paeonia Officinalis
- RHS: Paeonia Officinalis
- Gardenia: Paeonia Officinalis
