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Description
Paeonia Rockii, also known as Rock’s peony or Gansu Mudan, is a deciduous perennial plant that belongs to the Paeoniaceae family. It is native to China and is known for its large, showy, and fragrant flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide, and its blooms can reach up to 25 centimeters in diameter. Paeonia Rockii is prized for its ornamental value and is often used in gardens, landscapes, and as cut flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus | Paeonia |
Appearance
Paeonia Rockii has a bushy habit and produces large, dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The leaves are about 20-40 centimeters long and 15-25 centimeters wide. The flowers of Paeonia Rockii are the main attraction, with large, single or double blooms that can range in color from white, pink, red, to purple. The petals are thick and fleshy, and some cultivars have dark red or purple spots at the base of each petal. The flowers are followed by seed pods that are about 5-10 centimeters long and contain black seeds.
Care Guide
Paeonia Rockii is relatively easy to grow and care for, but it requires specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for Paeonia Rockii:Water: Paeonia Rockii prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells or hot weather.Fertilization: Paeonia Rockii benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply fertilizer in early spring and again after blooming.Soil: Paeonia Rockii prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.Sunlight: Paeonia Rockii prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.Hardiness Zones: Paeonia Rockii is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Paeonia Rockii is relatively pest and disease-free, but it may still be susceptible to some issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs may attack Paeonia Rockii. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.Diseases: Botrytis blight, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt may affect Paeonia Rockii. Remove infected plant parts and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Paeonia Rockii is native to the Gansu province of China, where it grows in rocky hillsides, mountain slopes, and valleys. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Paeonia Rockii grow in containers?
A: Yes, Paeonia Rockii can be grown in containers, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I fertilize Paeonia Rockii?
A: Fertilize Paeonia Rockii once in early spring and again after blooming.Q: Is Paeonia Rockii deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Paeonia Rockii is deer-resistant.Q: How do I propagate Paeonia Rockii?
A: Paeonia Rockii can be propagated through division or by seed.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Paeonia Rockii:- Paeonia lactiflora (Chinese peony)- Paeonia suffruticosa (tree peony)- Paeonia tenuifolia (fernleaf peony)- Paeonia anomala (mountain peony)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Paeonia Rockii. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281345- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Paeonia Rockii. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/17713/Paeonia-Rockii/Details
