Peony is a native of
flowering plants native to Asia, Southern Europe and Western North America. Most
of the species are herbaceous perennials that grow 0.5-1.5 meters tall. Some of
the species are woody shrubs 1.5-3 meters tall. Leaves are compound and deeply
lobed. Large flowers, often fragrant, ranging from red to white or yellow grows
in late spring and early summer. The plant is named after ‘Paeon’, Greek God of
medicine and healing. In China, Peony has been cultivated since last more than
2000 years.
Peonies, recognizable for their large blooms, are familiar garden plants. The
flowers grow in a variety of colors, with large, showy blossoms that are popular
in weddings and home decoration. Peony flowers are not limited to the outdoor
garden. While peonies are notoriously difficult to grow indoors, it is possible
to do so and enjoy their beautiful blossoms almost year-round.
Peony has a long history of being used as an ornamental plant. The plant is
one of the smallest living creatures that are used as National Emblem in China.
Besides being the traditional floral symbol of China, Peony is also famous as
‘Flower of Riches and Honor’ and in the Chinese floral art and tattoos. In
Japan, Peony is cultivated as an ornamental plant and also for its roots that
are used in the treatments for convulsions. In North America, Peony plants are
used for ornamental plants and its flowers are used for making cut flowers.
Sow Peony Poppy flower seeds indoors in late winter. Use peat pots and
starter mix. Sow the flower seeds on the surface and press the flower seeds into
the soil. Peony Poppy flower seeds need light to germinate. Keep flower seeds
moist until germination. Another option, and often preferred by many gardeners,
is to direct sow the Peony Poppy flower seed outdoors. Peony Poppy flower seed
can be sown in the late fall, late winter, or early spring. Prepare the soil by
loosening the top several inches, spread the flower seeds and lightly rake. Firm
the soil by walking lightly over the area. Thin seedlings to 15 - 18 inches
apart. These annual Peony Poppy plants are known to be prolific self-sowers.