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Description
Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea, also known as yellow tree peony, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Paeoniaceae family. It is native to southwestern China and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, producing large, bright yellow flowers with reddish-purple centers. Its leaves are dark green and deeply lobed, adding to its ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus: | Paeonia |
| Species: | Delavayi |
| Subspecies: | Lutea |
Appearance
Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea is a stunning shrub that can add color to any garden. Its bright yellow flowers with reddish-purple centers can grow up to 5 inches in diameter. The plant’s dark green leaves are deeply lobed and can grow up to 8 inches long. The shrub itself can grow up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide, making it a perfect addition to a garden border or as a standalone specimen.
Care Guide
Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea is a relatively low-maintenance shrub, but it still requires some care to grow and thrive.
- Water: This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak growth and poor flowering.
- Soil: This plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Ensure that the soil is well-draining, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot.
- Sunlight: Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea prefers full sun to partial shade. Generally, the more sun it receives, the more flowers it will produce.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause gray mold on the plant’s leaves and flowers. It can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant’s leaves. There is no cure, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant’s leaves and flowers, causing them to distort and yellow. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea is native to southwestern China, where it grows in mountainous areas at elevations of 5,000-10,000 feet. It prefers cool, moist conditions and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers. However, ensure that the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and that the soil is well-draining.
Q: Can Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea be propagated?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.
Q: How long does it take for Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea to flower?
A: This plant typically takes 3-4 years to flower from seed.
Q: How often should Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea be pruned?
A: This plant does not require regular pruning. However, dead or diseased wood should be removed as needed.
Related Plants
- Paeonia Lactiflora
- Paeonia Suffruticosa
- Paeonia Tenuifolia
- Paeonia Veitchii
References
- “Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c165 (accessed July 28, 2021).
- “Paeonia Delavayi Subsp. Lutea.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/123660/Paeonia-delavayi-subsp-lutea/Details (accessed July 28, 2021).
- “Yellow Tree Peony.” Fine Gardening. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/yellow-tree-peony-paeonia-delavayi-subsp-lutea (accessed July 28, 2021).
