Peony Paeonia lactiflora 'Sorbet'

Names

• Family

  Paeoniaceae

• Synonyms

  Chinese Peony, Common Garden Peony, White Peony

• Common names

  Paeonia lactiflora 'Sorbet'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Peonies, including Paeonia lactiflora 'Sorbet', are not considered highly toxic to humans. However, they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The plant parts most likely to cause discomfort are the roots and seeds, whereas the flowers and foliage are less likely to be harmful. It is generally advised to avoid ingesting any part of peonies.

• To pets

  Peonies, including Paeonia lactiflora 'Sorbet', can be toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs, if ingested. The primary symptoms of peony poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. In rare cases, more severe symptoms such as depression and tremors could occur if a significant amount is consumed. It is important to prevent pets from chewing on any part of peonies, especially the roots and seeds, to avoid the possibility of toxic effects.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Mixed

• Height

  2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)

• Spread

  2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  3-8

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: The Paeonia lactiflora 'Sorbet', commonly known as Peony 'Sorbet', has lush, double flowers with a unique two-tone appearance that makes it a striking addition to any garden.
• Long Bloom Time: Peonies typically have a long flowering period during late spring to early summer, providing a lasting display of color.
• Perennial Growth: As a perennial plant, once established, it will return year after year, offering a long-term presence in the garden.
• Attracts Pollinators: The large blooms are attractive to butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators, which are essential for a healthy garden ecosystem.
• Cut Flower Use: Peony 'Sorbet' makes excellent cut flowers with a long vase life, perfect for floral arrangements and bouquets.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, peonies can tolerate periods of drought, making them suitable for gardens with lower water availability.
• Cold Hardiness: Peonies are cold hardy and can survive in cold winter climates without significant protection.
• Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal upkeep once established, with little need for pruning or complex care.
• Deer Resistance: Peonies are generally resistant to deer, which makes them a good choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Paeonia lactiflora has compounds that may reduce inflammation.
• Antioxidant: Contains antioxidants that help in protecting cells from oxidative stress.
• Analgesic: Some components might have pain-relieving properties.
• Immunomodulatory: It may influence the immune system and improve its response.
• Neuroprotective: Has potential effects in protecting nerve cells.
• Cardiovascular health: Can have a positive effect on blood circulation and heart health.
• Antispasmodic: May help in relieving muscle spasms.
• Antitumor: Contains elements that might have activity against tumor cells.
• Hepatoprotective: It may offer some protection to the liver from certain toxins.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Peony petals can be crystallized and used as edible decorations on cakes and desserts, providing a touch of elegance and flavor.
• Peonies in bloom can serve as a natural indicator of the start of the fishing season in certain regions, as they often coincide with fish migrations.
• The strong stems of the Peony plant can be used in basket weaving and as a natural support for other climbing plants in the garden.
• Dried Peony petals can be incorporated into potpourri mixes, adding a subtle fragrance and bursts of color to a room.
• Artists might use the Peony's intricate petals and vibrant colors as inspiration for paintings, textile designs, and other creative works.
• Peony flowers can be pressed and included in personal diaries or scrapbooks, serving as mementos for special occasions.
• During special events, Peony flowers can be floated in large bowls of water to create decorative centerpieces.
• The vibrant Peony blooms can be photographed and used for greeting cards, calendars, or as stock images.
• Peony seed pods have a unique architectural form and can be used in dried flower arrangements.
• The contrast between the Peony's lush foliage and its flowers can be used in landscape design to create visual interest and texture in gardens.

Feng Shui

The peony is often used in Feng Shui as a symbol of love, romance, and feminine beauty. It is typically placed in the southwest corner of a garden or room to enhance relationship luck and to encourage positive energy, or chi, related to love and marriage.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The peony is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Prosperity: Paeonia lactiflora 'Sorbet', commonly known as the peony, is often considered a symbol of wealth and honor. Having traditionally adorned imperial gardens, peonies are associated with riches and honor in Chinese culture.
• Romance: Peonies are widely regarded as a symbol of romantic love, with their lush and full blooms. They are often used in wedding bouquets to signify a happy marriage.
• Beauty: With their large and layered petals, peonies epitomize the classical notion of beauty. They often represent the ideal of feminine allure and charm.
• Good Fortune: In many cultures, peonies are believed to bring good luck and prosperity, making them a popular choice for festive occasions.
• Compassion: Peonies can symbolize bashfulness or compassion, with the myth of Paeon, a student of Asclepius in Greek mythology, being transformed into a peony flower after showing empathy and compassion.