Contents
Description
Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch is a hybrid peony cultivar that produces large, fragrant, double flowers in shades of pink and white. This herbaceous perennial plant grows up to 2-3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and blooms in late spring to early summer. It is a popular choice among gardeners and flower enthusiasts because of its showy blooms and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus | Paeonia |
Appearance
Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch has dark green, lobed leaves that are divided into three to five segments. The flowers are large, double, and fragrant, with a diameter of up to 8 inches. They come in shades of pink and white, and have a dense, fluffy texture. The plant produces numerous blooms on strong stems that can support the heavy flowers without drooping. After flowering, the plant develops seed pods that contain small, round, black seeds.
Care Guide
Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Peonies prefer well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring when new growth appears, and again after flowering to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: Peonies prefer neutral to slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
- Sunlight: Peonies prefer full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Peonies are generally disease and pest resistant, but they may occasionally be affected by the following:
- Fungal diseases: Peonies can be prone to fungal diseases such as botrytis blight, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt. These can be prevented by providing good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected plant material.
- Insects: Peonies may be affected by insects such as aphids, thrips, and Japanese beetles. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch is native to China, Japan, and Korea, and grows in a variety of habitats including grasslands, deciduous forests, and mountain slopes. In cultivation, it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch?
A: Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as peonies do not like waterlogged soil.
Q: When should I fertilize my Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring when new growth appears, and again after flowering to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: What is the ideal location for planting Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch?
A: Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch prefers full sun to partial shade, and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Paeonia Lactiflora Martha Bulloch?
A: Peonies may be affected by fungal diseases such as botrytis blight, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt, as well as insects such as aphids, thrips, and Japanese beetles.
Related Plants
- Paeonia Lactiflora
- Paeonia Suffruticosa
- Paeonia Delavayi
- Paeonia Tenuifolia
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Martha Bulloch’
- Royal Horticultural Society: Paeonia Lactiflora ‘Martha Bulloch’
- Gardening Know How: Martha Bulloch Peony Care – How To Grow A Martha Bulloch Peony Plant
