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Description
Paeonia Officinalis Rubra Plena, commonly known as the double red peony, is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. This plant is a member of the Paeoniaceae family and is one of the oldest cultivated flowers in the world, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. The double red peony is a highly sought-after plant for its large, showy blooms and long blooming period.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Paeoniales |
| Family | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus | Paeonia |
Appearance
The double red peony has large, lush green foliage that is deeply lobed and attractive even when the plant is not in bloom. The plant produces large, double blooms that can reach up to 5 inches in diameter. The blooms are a deep, vibrant red color and have a sweet, fragrant scent. The double red peony typically blooms in late spring to early summer and can continue to bloom for several weeks.
Care Guide
Water: The double red peony prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during periods of drought.Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring before the plant begins to bloom. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Soil: The double red peony prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve soil structure and fertility.Sunlight: The double red peony prefers full sun to light shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade may be necessary to prevent the plant from wilting.Hardiness Zones: The double red peony is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The double red peony is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to botrytis blight, which can cause gray mold on the plant’s leaves and blooms. To prevent botrytis blight, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The double red peony is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in gardens and landscapes throughout the world. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to light shade.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I fertilize my double red peony?
A: Fertilize in early spring before the plant begins to bloom.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the double red peony?
A: The double red peony is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.Q: How often should I water my double red peony?
A: Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during periods of drought.Q: Is the double red peony susceptible to any pests or diseases?
A: The double red peony may be susceptible to botrytis blight, which can cause gray mold on the plant’s leaves and blooms.
Related Plants
- Paeonia lactiflora
- Paeonia suffruticosa
- Paeonia tenuifolia
- Paeonia veitchii
References
- “Paeonia Officinalis Rubra Plena.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b498.
- “Paeonia Officinalis.” Plant Finder, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:710297-1.
- “Paeonia Officinalis Rubra Plena.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/133671/Paeonia-officinalis-Rubra-Plena/Details.
