Florist's Guide to Peony Varieties

Peonies are beloved for their lush, full blooms, vibrant colors, and sweet fragrance, making them a staple in floral arrangements, gardens, and special events. This guide provides florists with an overview of popular peony varieties, their characteristics, uses, and care tips to maximize their appeal and longevity.

Introduction to Peonies

Peonies (genus Paeonia) are herbaceous perennials, tree peonies, or hybrids, known for their large, showy flowers. They bloom primarily in late spring to early summer (May to June in the Northern Hemisphere) and are available in a range of colors including white, pink, red, coral, yellow, and bi-colors. Their bloom types—single, semi-double, double, anemone, and bomb—offer diverse textures for arrangements.

Popular Peony Varieties for Florists

1. Herbaceous Peonies

Herbaceous peonies die back to the ground each winter and are the most common type used in floral design due to their availability and variety.

• Sarah Bernhardt

  • Color: Soft pink

  • Bloom Type: Double

  • Characteristics: Large, ruffled blooms with a sweet fragrance. A classic choice for wedding bouquets and centerpieces.

  • Uses: Ideal for romantic, voluminous arrangements. Pairs well with roses and ranunculus.

  • Care Tips: Cut when buds are soft and marshmallow-like for best vase life (7–10 days).

• Coral Charm

  • Color: Coral, fading to peach and cream

  • Bloom Type: Semi-double

  • Characteristics: Vibrant color transition makes it a standout. Early bloomer with sturdy stems.

  • Uses: Adds a pop of color to mixed bouquets or tropical-themed designs.

  • Care Tips: Avoid direct sunlight to preserve color vibrancy. Vase life: 6–8 days.

• Red Charm

  • Color: Deep red

  • Bloom Type: Bomb

  • Characteristics: Dense, globe-like blooms with a rich, velvety texture. Strong fragrance.

  • Uses: Perfect for bold, dramatic arrangements or monochromatic designs.

  • Care Tips: Support heavy blooms with floral tape or wire in arrangements. Vase life: 7–9 days.

• Bowl of Beauty

  • Color: Pink with creamy yellow centers

  • Bloom Type: Anemone

  • Characteristics: Striking contrast between outer petals and central petaloids. Delicate fragrance.

  • Uses: Excellent for focal points in bouquets or as a standalone in minimalist designs.

  • Care Tips: Handle gently to avoid petal bruising. Vase life: 6–8 days.

2. Tree Peonies

Tree peonies have woody stems that persist year-round, producing larger, more delicate blooms than herbaceous types. They’re less common but prized for their exotic appeal.

• High Noon

  • Color: Bright yellow

  • Bloom Type: Semi-double to double

  • Characteristics: Large, vibrant blooms with a citrusy fragrance. Blooms slightly later than herbaceous varieties.

  • Uses: Luxury arrangements, high-end events, or as a statement piece in large installations.

  • Care Tips: Expensive and delicate; use in low-handling designs. Vase life: 5–7 days.

• Shimadaijin

  • Color: Deep purple-red

  • Bloom Type: Single to semi-double

  • Characteristics: Bold, open blooms with golden stamens. Strong, upright stems.

  • Uses: Adds drama to modern or Asian-inspired arrangements.

  • Care Tips: Keep in cool conditions to extend vase life (6–8 days).

3. Intersectional (Itoh) Peonies

Itoh peonies are hybrids of herbaceous and tree peonies, combining vibrant colors, sturdy stems, and longer bloom periods.

• Bartzella

  • Color: Bright yellow with red flares at the base

  • Bloom Type: Double

  • Characteristics: Large, lemon-scented blooms with excellent disease resistance. Long blooming season.

  • Uses: Versatile for bouquets, corsages, or garden-style arrangements.

  • Care Tips: Cut at bud stage for longer vase life (8–10 days). Avoid overcrowding in vases.

• Kopper Kettle

  • Color: Copper-orange with pink undertones

  • Bloom Type: Semi-double

  • Characteristics: Unique, warm hue with a subtle fragrance. Strong stems support heavy blooms.

  • Uses: Ideal for autumnal or sunset-inspired designs.

  • Care Tips: Change water daily to prevent bacterial buildup. Vase life: 7–9 days.

Care and Handling Tips for Peonies

• Harvest Stage: Cut peonies when buds are soft to the touch (like a marshmallow) but not fully open. This ensures longer vase life and proper blooming.

• Hydration: Remove lower leaves and cut stems at a 45-degree angle under water to prevent air bubbles. Use clean, lukewarm water with floral preservative.

• Storage: Store at 34–38°F (1–3°C) in a cooler to slow opening. Avoid storing near ethylene-producing flowers like roses.

• Vase Life: Most peonies last 6–10 days with proper care. Change water every 2 days and recut stems to maintain hydration.

• Design Tips: Use floral foam or chicken wire to support heavy blooms in arrangements. Pair with greenery like eucalyptus or ferns for contrast.

Seasonal Availability

• Herbaceous Peonies: Peak season is May to June. Some varieties available April to July depending on region.

• Tree Peonies: Bloom slightly later, typically May to early June.

• Itoh Peonies: Extended bloom period from late spring to early summer.

• Off-Season: Imported peonies (e.g., from the Southern Hemisphere) may be available in fall/winter but are costlier.

Sourcing and Sustainability

• Local Sourcing: Work with local growers for fresher blooms and lower carbon footprint. Check regional flower farms or markets.

• Imports: For off-season needs, source from reputable suppliers in Chile or New Zealand, ensuring proper cold-chain handling.

• Sustainability: Choose organic or sustainably grown peonies when possible to meet eco-conscious client demands.

Peonies are a florist’s dream for their versatility, beauty, and fragrance. By understanding the unique traits of varieties like Sarah Bernhardt, Coral Charm, Bartzella, and Shimadaijin, florists can create stunning arrangements tailored to any occasion. Proper care and strategic sourcing ensure these blooms shine in your designs.