Chinese Peony Paeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense'
ABOUT
The 'Reine Hortense' is a beautiful variety of the common peony, known for its stunning flowers and elegant appearance. The plant produces large, double blooms that are full and rounded, often showcasing a delightful array of layered petals. These petals can be described as soft and slightly ruffled, contributing to the lush and luxurious look of the flower. The color of the blossoms is notably captivating, presenting in soft pink hues that may possess varying shades, from a pale, almost blush-like pink to a deeper, rose-like color. At the center of the flowers, a group of smaller, yellow stamen can typically be seen, adding a lovely contrast to the pink petals and drawing the eye inward. The leaves of the peony 'Reine Hortense' are deep green, providing a rich backdrop for the spectacular blooms. They are usually glossy, with a smooth texture and a typical lance-shaped, sometimes lobed, forming an attractive foliage mound that complements and enhances the overall visual appeal of the plant. This peony variety is not only admired for its flowers but also for the fragrance they exude. The scent is commonly described as sweet and alluring, contributing to the plant's reputation as a garden favorite. Overall, the 'Reine Hortense' peony is a standout plant that exudes a classic charm and sophistication with its striking flowers and pleasant aroma.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Chinese Peony, White Peony, Common Garden Peony.
Common names
Paeonia edulis Salisb., Paeonia albiflora Pall.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as the peony is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, like many plants, it may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested in large quantities. Some individuals may also experience allergic reactions to the plant, such as skin rashes, if they have sensitivity. The reported symptoms of peony poisoning in humans may include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, although significant effects from consumption are rare.
To pets
Peonies, including Paeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense', are considered toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. If a pet ingests parts of a peony plant, it may experience symptoms of poisoning which can include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. In some cases, ingestion can also lead to more severe symptoms such as tremors or changes in heart rate. It is advisable to keep peonies out of reach of pets and to contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Paeonia lactiflora, commonly known as Chinese peony, is highly prized for its large, showy flowers that come in a range of colors and add beauty to gardens.
- Garden Design Versatility: With its lush foliage and striking blooms, this peony can serve as a focal point in a flower bed, blend into mixed borders, or work as a specimen plant.
- Seasonal Interest: The Chinese peony provides a spectacular display in late spring to early summer, helping to bridge the gap between spring bulbs and summer perennials.
- Attracts Pollinators: The fragrant flowers of the Chinese peony attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Longevity: Peonies are known for their long lifespan, often living for decades and becoming a permanent fixture in a garden once established.
- Low Maintenance: Once settled in, peonies require minimal care, making them an ideal choice for gardeners seeking plants that don't need constant attention.
- Good Cut Flowers: The blooms of the Chinese peony are excellent for cutting and can create stunning bouquets that add a touch of elegance to interior decor.
- Cold Hardy: These plants are suitable for cooler climates, as they thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3-8 and can tolerate winter temperatures.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: The root of Paeonia lactiflora, known as white peony, may have properties that help reduce inflammation.
- Immunomodulatory Effects: Extracts from the root could potentially influence the immune system, having modulating effects.
- Antioxidant: Components in white peony might exhibit antioxidant properties, which can help in protecting cells from damage.
- Neuroprotective: Certain compounds in the root extract may offer protection to nerve cells.
- Anxiolytic: There may be anxiolytic effects associated with white peony, potentially aiding anxiety reduction.
- Antispasmodic: The plant has been traditionally used to help alleviate muscle spasms.
- Analgesic: White peony may have pain-relieving properties.
- Cardiovascular Effects: Some research suggests that white peony might impart benefits for cardiovascular health.
- Hepatoprotective: There might be compounds within white peony that help in protecting the liver.
- Women's Health: Historically, white peony has been used for menstrual disorders and to help with reproductive health in women.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Culinary decoration: Petals of the peony can be used to add a splash of color to salads and desserts for an elegant presentation.
- Fabric dye: The petals can be boiled to create a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a gentle pink shade to textiles.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists can draw creative inspiration from the intricate and lush blooms, potentially leading to peony representations in paintings, prints, and sculpture.
- Floral water: Petals can be steeped in water to make a lightly scented floral water that can be used for perfuming a room or freshening linens.
- Photography subject: The peony's large, showy flowers make them a favorite subject for photographers seeking to capture the essence of spring and the delicacy of flowers.
- Crafting: Dried peony petals and seed pods can be used in crafting, such as in homemade potpourri mixtures, wreaths, and in floral arrangements.
- Edible confections: Candied peony petals can be used as edible decorations for cakes and pastries for an added touch of natural beauty and a subtle floral flavor.
- Symbolic gift: Peonies symbolize romance, prosperity, and good fortune, making them ideal as part of a bouquet for weddings or as gifts conveying deep affection.
- Garden design: Peonies, with their lush foliage and large flowers, are often used in garden design as focal points or to create a sense of abundance in borders and beds.
- Education: Peonies can play a role in educational settings, teaching botanical students about plant anatomy, reproduction, and horticultural practices.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe peony is often used in Feng Shui to attract romance and prosperity, and it is especially potent in the southwest area of a garden or home, as this is considered the area connected to love and relationships.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe peony is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Prosperity and Wealth: Due to its lush, full blossoms, the Paeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense', commonly known as the Chinese peony, is often associated with abundance and riches.
- Honor and Nobility: Its regal appearance has led to associations with honor and high social status, reflecting its traditional use in the gardens of Chinese emperors.
- Romance and Love: With its romantic ruffles and soft fragrance, the Chinese peony is frequently tied to love and affection, making it a popular choice in wedding bouquets.
- Beauty in all Forms: Representing the ideal of feminine beauty, this flower is a symbol of the many aspects of beauty, both inner and outer.
- Good Fortune and Happy Marriage: Often used in matrimonial ceremonies, it is thought to bring good luck, happiness, and a prosperous marriage to the newlyweds.
- Compassion: The delicate appearance of the flower suggests tenderness and is thus connected to feelings of compassion and empathy.
- Healing: In traditional medicine, parts of the peony plant are used for their healing properties, which is why the flower also symbolizes good health and recovery.
WaterThe common peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense') should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Each watering session should consist of about 1 inch of water. If you're using a watering can or hose, this translates roughly to 5 gallons for each plant, depending on the size and the type of soil. During hot spells, you may need to water twice a week. In winter, reduce watering to only when the soil is dry to prevent root rot.
LightPeonies, including Paeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense', flourish in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location for planting is a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. They can tolerate light afternoon shade, which is beneficial in regions with hot summers, but too much shade can reduce flowering.
TemperaturePeonies like Paeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense' prefer a temperate climate with cold winters. They can survive winter temperatures down to roughly -20°F and summer temperatures up to 90°F. However, the ideal growing temperature range is between 65°F and 75°F. Peonies need a period of winter chill to bloom properly, ideally having exposure to temperatures between 32°F and 40°F for a sustained period.
PruningPruning peonies like Paeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense' involves removing spent blooms to maintain aesthetics and encourage root development. Deadheading, or cutting off the spent flower heads, immediately after blooming can improve the appearance of the plant. In fall, after the first frost, cut back the foliage to ground level to prevent disease and prepare the plant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Chinese Peony 'Reine Hortense' prefers a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. The best soil mix should contain organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure, along with a portion of loamy garden soil and some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
RepottingChinese Peonies like 'Reine Hortense' generally do not need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same location for many years. These perennials can be left undisturbed unless they become overcrowded, at which point they should be divided and replanted in the fall after the leaves die back.
Humidity & MistingChinese Peonies such as 'Reine Hortense' are tolerant of most humidity levels and do not require specific humidity conditions to thrive. They perform well in the varying outdoor ambient humidity typical of temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal indoor; needs sun, cold winter dormancy.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, well-drained soil; mulch in winter.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cyclePaeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense', commonly known as Chinese peony, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which can be slow and may require a cold period to break dormancy. The plant develops a root system and a shoot that emerges above ground, followed by distinctive compound leaves. As a perennial, the peony enters a vegetative stage where it grows and matures, storing energy in its underground tuberous roots. After several years, it reaches maturity and starts the reproductive phase, producing large, fragrant flowers typically in late spring to early summer. Following pollination, often by insects attracted to its vivid blooms, the plant sets seed encased in a follicle that, when mature, splits open to release the seeds. In autumn, the peony's foliage dies back to the ground and the plant enters a period of dormancy over winter, resuming growth the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating the common garden peony, Paeonia lactiflora 'Reine Hortense', is through division. This is typically done in the fall after the plants have gone dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the peony clumps and gently wash the soil off the roots. Using a sharp knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has at least three to five buds, also known as "eyes". These divisions can then be replanted in well-drained soil with the buds situated about 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface (2.5 to 5 cm). It is important to give the new plants plenty of water to help establish them. Dividing peonies not only helps to propagate them but can also rejuvenate older plants that have become too large or are not flowering as profusely.
