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Description
Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray, commonly known as the Chinese Peony, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to China. It belongs to the Paeoniaceae family and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. This plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and has a spread of 2-3 feet. It has large, fragrant, and showy flowers that range from pure white to deep red. The flowers have a diameter of 6-8 inches and bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus | Paeonia |
Appearance
Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray has a bushy growth habit with dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and glossy. The flowers grow on strong stems and have a cup-shaped structure with multiple petals. The petals are soft and delicate, and the center of the flower is filled with a cluster of yellow stamens. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that can fill the air around them. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, and the flowers last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Water: Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray requires well-drained soil and regular watering during the growing season. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the new growth appears. It is also recommended to apply a phosphorus-rich fertilizer during the blooming season to promote flower growth.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.Sunlight: Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray is generally healthy and resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as botrytis blight and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. The plant can also be attacked by pests such as nematodes and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray is native to China and is commonly cultivated in gardens and parks around the world. It prefers well-drained soil and a temperate climate.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray?
A: The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the new growth appears. It is also recommended to apply a phosphorus-rich fertilizer during the blooming season to promote flower growth.Q: What is the ideal pH range for the soil of Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray?
A: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.Q: What are the common pests that attack Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray?
A: The plant can be attacked by pests such as nematodes and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.Q: What is the blooming season of Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray?
A: The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, and the flowers last for several weeks.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that are similar to Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray:
- Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Bowl of Beauty’
- Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Sarah Bernhardt’
- Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Festiva Maxima’
- Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Duchesse de Nemours’
References
- “Paeonia Lactiflora Karen Gray.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Peony.” Royal Horticultural Society.
- “Peony Diseases & Insect Pests.” University of Illinois Extension.
