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Description
Paeonia Peregrina, commonly known as the Turkish peony, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to Turkey and the Caucasus region. It belongs to the Paeoniaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its large, showy flowers. The plant can grow up to 60-90 cm in height and produces dark green leaves that are deeply dissected. The flowers are usually pink, but they can also be red, purple, or white, and have a diameter of up to 20 cm. The Turkish peony is known for its pleasant fragrance and is often used in perfumes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus | Paeonia |
| Species | Peregrina |
Appearance
The Turkish peony has a striking appearance due to its large, flamboyant flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are cup-shaped, with five to ten petals and a yellow center. The leaves of the plant are deeply dissected and have a dark green color. The plant can grow up to 60-90 cm in height and has a spread of up to 75 cm. The Turkish peony is a deciduous plant, which means it loses its leaves in the fall and becomes dormant during the winter.
Care Guide
The Turkish peony is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips for caring for your Paeonia Peregrina:Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can interfere with the plant’s dormancy.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. Avoid planting in heavy clay or waterlogged soil.Sunlight: The Turkish peony requires full sun to partial shade. Plant in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. It can tolerate cold temperatures and is resistant to drought.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Turkish peony is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to some common issues, such as:Fungal diseases: The plant can be affected by fungal diseases, such as botrytis blight and verticillium wilt. These diseases can cause yellowing of leaves, stem cankers, and flower blight. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.Root rot: Over-watering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid over-watering.Peony wilt: Peony wilt is a bacterial disease that can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent peony wilt, remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
The Turkish peony is native to Turkey and the Caucasus region and is commonly found in rocky hillsides and meadows. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and drought. It is a hardy plant that can survive in a variety of habitats, including gardens, borders, and rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Turkish peony?
A: Water your Turkish peony once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall to allow the plant to enter dormancy.Q: When is the best time to plant a Turkish peony?
A: The best time to plant a Turkish peony is in the fall, when the soil is cool and moist. This allows the plant to establish its roots before the winter.Q: Can I grow Turkish peony in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Turkish peony in a container. Use a large container with good drainage and plant in well-draining soil.Q: How do I propagate Turkish peony?
A: Turkish peony can be propagated by division in the fall or early spring. Dig up the plant and separate the roots into sections, ensuring each section has at least one healthy bud.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Paeonia Peregrina:
- Paeonia lactiflora (Chinese peony)
- Paeonia suffruticosa (Tree peony)
- Paeonia tenuifolia (Fernleaf peony)
- Paeonia veitchii (Veitch’s peony)
References
- “Paeonia Peregrina.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281675&isprofile=0&letter=p
- “Paeonia Peregrina.” Plant Delights Nursery. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/paeonia-peregrina
- “Paeonia Peregrina.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/268128/Paeonia-Peregrina/Details
