Paeonia suffruticosa

Supplied as: P23(5Ltr)TERRA.

Overview

Paeonia suffruticosa (Tree Peony) is a magnificent, long-lived woody peony with sumptuous, often fragrant blooms in mid to late spring. Unlike herbaceous peonies, tree peonies keep a permanent woody framework, offering structure from year to year and becoming more impressive with age.

Key Features

• Large, luxurious spring flowers (often fragrant) with strong ornamental impact
• Woody shrub habit gives year-round structure
• Very long-lived once established and can improve with age
• Excellent cut flower potential (cut in bud for best vase life)
• An outstanding specimen plant for borders and focal points

Best Position

• Full sun to light partial shade; avoid very hot, exposed sites
• Deep, fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter
• Shelter from strong winds to protect large blooms

How to Plant

Plant into well-prepared soil with plenty of organic matter. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to conserve moisture. Tree peonies dislike being moved—choose a permanent position. If your plant is grafted, ensure the graft union is planted below soil level so it can establish its own roots over time (follow any nursery guidance on planting depth).

Care Tips

• Water during dry spells while establishing; avoid waterlogging in winter
• Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser and mulch annually
• Prune lightly only: remove dead wood and tidy after flowering; avoid hard pruning
• Support may help in bloom if flowers are very large or the site is windy

Size & Growth

Slow to establish, then steadily forms a shrub typically around 1–1.5 m (sometimes more) over several years, depending on variety and conditions.

Perfect For…

• Feature planting in mixed borders and formal beds
• Collectors and gardeners who value longevity and spring spectacle
• High-end planting schemes where a single plant can anchor a design