Garden Peony, Common Peony, Chinese Peony
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Saxifragales, Family: Paeoniaceae, Genus: Paeonia, Species: Paeonia lactiflora · Paeoniaceae (Peony family) · Compound; specifically biternate (divided into three which are then divided into three). Deciduous.
Species
Paeonia lactiflora
Leaf Type
Compound; specifically biternate (divided into three which are then divided into three). Deciduous.
Family
Paeoniaceae (Peony family)
Shape
The leaflets are elliptical to lanceolate, often deeply lobed or divided into three segments.
Size
Leaflets are approximately 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The entire compound leaf structure can reach 8-12 inches in width.
Margin
Entire (smooth) along the edges of the individual lobes/leaflets.
Arrangement
Alternate along the herbaceous stems.
Rarity
Very Common; a staple of temperate gardening worldwide.
Color & Pattern
Deep emerald green on the upper surface with a lighter green underside. The petioles and leaf junctions often show a distinct reddish-purple or burgundy tint.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation on individual leaflets; the central midrib is prominent and often tinged with red near the base.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) and somewhat leathery or waxy to the touch. The surface has a slight satin sheen.
Description
A clump-forming herbaceous perennial known for its large, showy, fragrant flowers. The foliage is lush and bushy, emerging reddish in spring before turning deep green. It grows to about 2-3 feet tall.
Key Features
Ternate or biternate leaf division, reddish tint at the petiole junctions, and smooth, elliptical leaflets.
Habitat
Prefers temperate climates, well-drained fertile soil, and full sun to partial shade. Common in garden borders and meadows.
Geographic Range
Native to Central and Eastern Asia (Siberia, Mongolia, China, Japan). Widely cultivated as an ornamental throughout Europe and North America.
Condition Notes
Excellent; the leaves appear vibrant and hydrated with no visible signs of powdery mildew, leaf blotch, or insect herbivory.
Interesting Facts
Peonies are known as the 'King of Flowers' in China and can live for over 50 years in the same spot if left undisturbed.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily ornamental. The roots (Bai Shao) are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Ecological Role
Provides nectar and pollen for ants and bees; ants are often seen on the buds but do not harm the plant.
Similar Species
Paeonia officinalis (European Peony) which has more finely divided leaves, and Paeonia suffruticosa (Tree Peony) which has woody stems.
Foraging Tips
Look for the red-tinted stalks in early spring as they emerge from the ground like 'peony toes'. Not typically foraged for food.
Toxicity Warning
Moderately Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested (contains paeonol). Can cause gastrointestinal distress in humans if eaten in large quantities.