Peonies are among the most cherished flowers in the world, admired for their lush, fragrant blooms and timeless elegance. Whether you're a seasoned gardener, a floral enthusiast, or someone who loves their breathtaking beauty, there's a peony variety that will captivate you.
Suppose you’ve ever wondered how many types of peonies there are. In that case, you’ll be pleased to know that they are mainly classified into three broad categories: herbaceous, tree, and intersectional (Itoh) peonies. Each category boasts numerous stunning varieties, each with its own unique charm.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore incredible peony varieties that will vibrate your garden. Read on to discover the different types of peonies, their distinguishing features, and why they deserve a place in your floral collection.
Herbaceous Peonies
Herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora) are the most common and widely cultivated peonies. They die back to the ground in winter and re-emerge in spring, producing large, fragrant blooms that are perfect for cutting gardens and floral displays.
1. Sarah Bernhardt
A classic favourite, this peony features large, ruffled, soft pink blooms with a sweet fragrance. A reliable bloomer, it is ideal for cottage gardens and floral bouquets.
2. Festiva Maxima
This elegant white peony is adorned with crimson flecks at its centre, exuding a delicate, old-world charm. It is highly fragrant and a top choice for wedding arrangements.
3. Karl Rosenfield
Boasting rich, deep red double blooms, this variety is known for its striking colour and resilience—a true showstopper in any garden.
4. Bowl Of Beauty
With striking pink outer petals and a creamy yellow centre, this Japanese-style peony adds visual interest and contrast to any floral setting.
5. Shirley Temple
Named after the famous child actress, this kind of peony starts as a soft pink bloom before fading to an elegant creamy white.
6. Duchesse De Nemours
A fragrant, full double peony with pristine white petals, it has been a staple in gardens for over 150 years.
7. Coral Charm
Known for its stunning coral hue, this semi-double peony fades to peach as it matures, providing a dynamic splash of colour.
8. Coral Sunset
Similar to Coral Charm but with a richer shade of coral, this variety is an early bloomer with a long vase life.
9. Raspberry Sundae
Reminiscent of a delicious dessert, this variety features pink and creamy yellow ruffled petals.
10. Dr. Alexander Fleming
Dr. Alexander Fleming is a robust, fragrant pink peony, perfect for both garden display and floral arrangements.
11. Red Charm
This deep red, velvety double peony is a real eye-catcher, adding a luxurious feel to any garden.
12. Pink Hawaiian Coral
An award-winning peony, this semi-double coral-pink flower is known for its golden centre and sweet fragrance.
13. Monsieur Jules Elie
This type of peony is a classic double pink peony with a delicate rose-like scent, making it a popular choice for cutting gardens.
14. Lady Orchid
Lady Orchid is a soft lavender-pink variety that adds a touch of grace to any floral arrangement.
15. Mother’s Choice
This creamy white peony features a hint of blush, making it an excellent wedding flower.
Tree Peonies
Tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa) are woody shrubs that produce enormous, silky blooms. Unlike herbaceous peonies, they do not die back in winter, making them a stunning feature in gardens year-round.
16. Kamada Nishiki
This lavender-pink variety has darker purple centres, offering a striking contrast.
17. Shima Nishiki
A bold red and white striped variety, this peony is sure to turn heads.
18. Renkaku
Renkaku is a stunning white double-flowered peony with an ethereal appearance.
19. Hana Kisoi
Hana Kisoi has soft pink petals with a delicate fragrance make it a romantic choice for gardens.
20. Koukamon
This type of peony is a rare deep purple tree peony that adds a dramatic touch to any garden.
Intersectional (Itoh) Peonies
A hybrid between herbaceous and tree peonies, intersectional peonies inherit the best qualities of both types: large, long-lasting blooms with sturdy stems.
21. Bartzella
One of the most famous yellow peonies, this variety has enormous, semi-double blooms.
22. Keiko (Pink Double Dandy)
A vibrant pink variety that stands out in any garden.
23. Cora Louise
This is elegant white blooms with a deep purple centre, perfect for adding contrast in a flower arrangement.
24. Julia Rose
Julia Rose is a unique colour-changing peony that starts with apricot-hued petals and gradually transitions into shades of pink and red as it matures.
25. Scarlet Heaven
Scarlet heaven is a rich, red semi-double bloom with striking golden stamens.
26. Canary Brilliants
This Itoh peony starts as a soft yellow bloom and deepens to a golden hue as it matures.
27. First Arrival
First Arrival is a lavender-pink peony that blooms early in the season.
28. Garden Treasure
A highly sought-after yellow Itoh peony that produces abundant flowers.
29. Hillary
This peach-pink hybrid of peony glows beautifully in the garden.
30. Morning Lilac
Morning Lilac is a striking lilac-pink peony with dark purple flares.
31. Yellow Crown
An exceptional bright yellow peony that stands out in floral arrangements.
32. Callie’s Memory
Callie’s Memory is a beautiful peony with a soft apricot shade and delicate pink edges, creating a subtle yet captivating display.
33. Lemon Dream
Lemon Dream is an Itoh peony that boasts pale yellow petals with a refreshing citrus-like hue, adding a bright and cheerful touch to any garden.
34. Prairie Charm
Prairie Charm is a compact Itoh peony featuring bright, lemony-yellow blooms that bring vibrancy and elegance to flower beds and arrangements.
35. Sonoma Halo
Sonoma Halo is a striking yellow Itoh peony with deep red flares at its centre, creating a stunning contrast that enhances its overall beauty.
36. Takara (Treasure)
Takara (Treasure) is a breathtaking blush-pink peony with subtle apricot undertones and a golden centre, making it a favourite among garden enthusiasts.
37. Yumi
Yumi is a delicate pink peony with creamy white edges, lending an elegant and sophisticated touch to any floral display.
38. Copper Kettle
Copper Kettle is a remarkable peony that showcases a blend of copper, orange, and yellow petals, which change colour as the flower matures.
39. Pastel Splendor
A soft pink and lavender blend with golden stamens, known for its graceful beauty.
40. Singing In The Rain
A peach-hued peony that darkens to coral and apricot over time.
41. White Emperor
White Emperor is an elegant white Itoh peony with yellow undertones, known for its abundant blooms and pristine beauty.
42. Yellow Emperor
Yellow Emperor is a radiant golden-yellow peony with a gentle fragrance, making it an excellent choice for a bright and cheerful garden display.
43. Scarlet Emperor
A vivid red variety with contrasting golden centres, making it a showpiece.
44. Pink Ardour
Pink Ardour is a deep pink peony that maintains its rich colour and blooms abundantly, making it a standout addition to gardens and floral arrangements.
45. Sunset Glow
Sunset Glow is a breathtaking peony that features a blend of peach and pink tones, resembling the warm and soothing hues of a sunset.
46. Watermelon Wine
Watermelon Wine is a distinctive peony with watermelon-red petals and a bright yellow centre, adding a pop of colour and vibrancy to any setting.
47. Copper Luster
Copper Luster is a rich copper-orange peony with slightly ruffled petals, making it a standout bloom in gardens and floral designs.
48. Elegant Beauty
Elegant Beauty is a sophisticated peony that features soft, creamy pink petals and a gentle fragrance, perfect for creating a refined and graceful atmosphere.
Conclusion About The Different Kinds Of Peonies
If you're shopping for fresh flowers, peonies make an excellent choice for celebrations, gifts, or home décor. Their lush blooms create a sophisticated and elegant touch to any setting.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Different Kinds Of Peonies
What Are The Main Types Of Peonies?
Peonies are classified into three main types: herbaceous peonies, tree peonies, and intersectional (Itoh) peonies.
How Many Types Of Peonies Are There?
There are hundreds of peony varieties, but they all fall into the three main categories mentioned above.
Which Peony Variety Is Best For Beginners?
Herbaceous peonies like 'Sarah Bernhardt' and 'Festiva Maxima' are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance.
Are Peonies Suitable For Tropical Climates?
Peonies thrive in cooler climates, but some varieties may adapt to warmer regions with proper care.