Paeonia × suffruticosa
Paeonia × suffruticosaUSDA | Grow Zone
4-9Outdoors all year in zones 4 to 9. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- Deeply once a week
- Humidity
- 40-60% humidity
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Paeonia × suffruticosa, commonly known as the tree peony, is a stunning perennial prized for its large, fragrant blooms. Native to China, it offers a unique beauty and is often grown for its ornamental value in gardens.
Ask Vesper about Paeonia × suffruticosa
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 24-36 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Paeonia × suffruticosa prefers consistent moisture, especially during its active growing season in spring and early summer.
Water deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In the fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This peony thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal blooming.
Ideal placement is in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter climates. It can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Soil
Paeonia × suffruticosa prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of garden soil, compost, and sand is recommended to improve drainage. Ensure the planting area has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Humidity
This plant enjoys moderate humidity levels, ideally around 40-60%.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves or place a humidity tray nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf edges and stunted growth.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Paeonia × suffruticosa is 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, tolerating cold winters but may struggle in extreme heat. Protect the plant from frost during early spring when new growth appears.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10, applying it in early spring as new growth begins.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and poor flowering.
Pruning
Prune Paeonia × suffruticosa in late fall after the foliage has died back.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or damaged stems, cutting them back to the ground. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming and improve the plant's appearance.
Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for established peonies, but if needed, do so every 3-5 years.
Signs it needs repotting include stunted growth and roots growing out of the drainage holes. When repotting, choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter and refresh the soil.
Propagation
Propagation can be achieved through division or seeds.
For division, do this in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the root ball, separate the tubers ensuring each has at least one eye, and replant immediately. For seeds, collect ripe seeds in late summer and sow them in a cold frame in fall.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure proper watering practices and consider applying a balanced fertilizer.
Root rot
Why it happens
Overly wet soil conditions can lead to root rot.
How to fix it
Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency. Remove affected roots and replant in fresh soil.
Poor blooming
Why it happens
Insufficient sunlight or nutrient deficiency may hinder blooming.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives full sun and fertilize appropriately.
Leaf spots
Why it happens
Fungal infections can cause leaf spots.
How to fix it
Remove affected leaves and apply a fungicide if necessary. Ensure good air circulation.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat can cause wilting.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and water deeply if needed, especially during hot weather.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, ensure consistent watering as new growth appears. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to support blooming.
Summer
During summer, maintain regular watering, especially in dry spells. Monitor for pests and diseases, and deadhead spent flowers.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Cut back foliage after it has died back to prevent disease.
Winter
In winter, protect the plant from extreme cold with mulch. Avoid excessive watering to prevent root rot during dormancy.
Toxicity & Safety
Paeonia × suffruticosa is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. It's best to keep all plants out of reach of curious pets and children.
Good to know
Why are my Paeonia × suffruticosa leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or a lack of nutrients. Check your watering schedule and consider fertilizing if necessary.
How often should I water my Paeonia × suffruticosa?
Water deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, especially during the growing season.
What is the best soil for Paeonia × suffruticosa?
This peony prefers well-draining loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and sand works well.
When should I prune my Paeonia × suffruticosa?
Prune in late fall after the foliage has died back, removing dead or damaged stems to promote healthy growth.
How can I propagate Paeonia × suffruticosa?
You can propagate through division in early spring or fall, or by sowing seeds collected in late summer.
What are common pests for Paeonia × suffruticosa?
Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plant and treat infestations with insecticidal soap.
How can I improve blooming in my Paeonia × suffruticosa?
Ensure your plant receives full sun and consider fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer to encourage more blooms.
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