Peony Flowers
Peony flowers (genus Paeonia) are celebrated late‑spring bloomers with large, ruffled, often fragrant blossoms. Long‑lived and hardy, they include herbaceous peonies, tree peonies, and Itoh (intersectional) hybrids, prized for weddings and elegant arrangements.
Occasions & recipients
Find flowers by occasion
Best occasions
- Weddings and engagements
- Anniversaries
- Mother’s Day
- Birthdays
- New baby/housewarming
Suitable for
- Romantic partner or spouse
- Fiancée/bride
- Mother or grandmother
- Close friend
- New parents
Color taboos
- Pure white-only bouquets may be read as condolence/funeral flowers in parts of East Asia
- Very dark purple/near‑black tones can suggest mourning in some cultures
- Blue‑dyed peonies (unnatural) are often viewed as inauthentic or tacky
Card messages
At a glance
Key details
Quick reference for habitat, gifting etiquette, and safety when choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients.
Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow, how to present them thoughtfully, and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.
Botanical info
Taxonomy
Kingdom: Plantae; Order: Saxifragales; Family: Paeoniaceae; Genus: Paeonia. Common garden groups: herbaceous peonies (e.g., Paeonia lactiflora), tree peonies (P. suffruticosa complex), and Itoh/intersectional hybrids.
Distribution
Native across temperate Eurasia (especially China) and parts of Western North America; now widely cultivated worldwide in temperate climates.
Conservation
Not threatened as cultivated ornamentals, but several wild Paeonia species are regionally rare or protected due to habitat loss and overharvesting—avoid wild collection and source from reputable growers.
Gifting & etiquette
Presentation etiquette
Trim stems at a 45° angle, remove foliage below the waterline, and present loosely wrapped to protect petals. For formal gifting, choose buds at marshmallow stage with a few open blooms. In East Asian contexts, avoid all‑white arrangements unless for condolences. Provide a clean vase with fresh, cool water and flower food.
Ideal delivery time
Late spring (in season). Deliver early in the day, buds at the soft “marshmallow” stage so they open in 1–2 days; for events, deliver 24–48 hours prior and keep cool and hydrated.
Health & risk
Toxicity
Mildly toxic if ingested in quantity; may cause gastrointestinal upset (vomiting/diarrhea) in pets and humans. Keep away from curious pets and children; sap may mildly irritate sensitive skin.
Allergenicity
Low to moderate. Peonies shed relatively little airborne pollen, but their strong fragrance can bother scent‑sensitive people. Generally suitable for most allergy sufferers when used in well‑ventilated spaces.
Meaning & taboos
Symbolism & color
Icon of romance, prosperity, honor, and feminine beauty; in Chinese culture, the “king of flowers” associated with wealth and a happy marriage, and sometimes used to convey apology or goodwill.
Growing & tools
Care & gear
Growing tips
Plant in full sun to light afternoon shade in hot climates; fertile, well‑drained soil (neutral to slightly alkaline). Set herbaceous peony eyes 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) below the surface—too deep reduces bloom. Water deeply but infrequently; avoid soggy soils. Provide support rings for heavy blooms, deadhead after flowering, and leave foliage to feed roots. Peonies resent frequent moving and may take 1–3 years to reach peak bloom; require winter chill for best flowering.
Recommended tools
- Peony rings or support stakes
- Sharp bypass pruners or snips
- Spade or digging fork for planting/division
- Mulch/compost for soil conditioning
- Watering can or soaker hose
Symbolizes
- Romance and affection
- Prosperity and good fortune
- Honor and respect
- Beauty and grace
- Happy marriage
- Apology and reconciliation