Ellermann Florist Guide to Vibrant Peony Varieties

Peonies are beloved for their lush, full blooms and stunning colors. Below is a guide to peony varieties known for their exceptionally vibrant hues, focusing on herbaceous and intersectional (Itoh) peonies that stand out in gardens. These varieties are selected for their bold, eye-catching colors, including rich reds, vivid pinks, bright yellows, and deep corals.

1. Red Peonies

Red peonies bring dramatic, fiery energy to any garden. Their deep, saturated tones are perfect for creating focal points.

• 'Red Charm'

  • Type: Herbaceous

  • Color: Deep, true red with a glossy finish

  • Description: This double-flowered peony features large, tightly packed petals that create a bold, velvety red bloom. Its vibrant color holds well in sunlight, and it blooms mid-season.

  • Height: 32–36 inches

  • Bloom Time: Mid-spring to early summer

  • Best For: Statement pieces in mixed borders or as cut flowers.

• 'Buckeye Belle'

  • Type: Herbaceous

  • Color: Dark mahogany-red

  • Description: Known for its semi-double blooms, this variety has a rich, almost burgundy-red hue with a slight sheen. Its sturdy stems make it ideal for windy gardens.

  • Height: 28–32 inches

  • Bloom Time: Early to mid spring

  • Best For: Adding depth to garden beds or dramatic bouquets.

2. Pink Peonies

Vivid pink peonies exude energy and charm, ranging from hot pinks to soft, glowing shades.

• 'Coral Charm'

  • Type: Herbaceous

  • Color: Vibrant coral-pink fading to peach

  • Description: This semi-double peony starts with a bold coral-pink hue that softens as it matures, creating a dynamic display. Its large blooms are a standout in any setting.

  • Height: 30–36 inches

  • Bloom Time: Early to mid spring

  • Best For: Mixed borders or as a focal point in arrangements.

• 'Pink Hawaiian Coral'

  • Type: Herbaceous

  • Color: Bright coral-pink

  • Description: A vigorous grower with semi-double blooms, this peony offers a tropical, hot-pink shade that resists fading. It’s an award-winner for its color and form.

  • Height: 28–34 inches

  • Bloom Time: Early spring

  • Best For: Warm-toned garden designs or containers.

3. Yellow Peonies

Yellow peonies are rare and highly sought after for their sunny, vibrant glow, especially in Itoh varieties.

• 'Bartzella'

  • Type: Itoh (Intersectional)

  • Color: Bright lemon-yellow with red flares

  • Description: This Itoh peony produces large, double blooms with a vivid yellow color and subtle red markings at the center. Its long bloom time and sturdy stems make it a favorite.

  • Height: 30–36 inches

  • Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

  • Best For: Mixed perennial beds or as a standalone specimen.

• 'Garden Treasure'

  • Type: Itoh (Intersectional)

  • Color: Golden-yellow

  • Description: Known for its semi-double to double blooms, this variety offers a rich, golden hue with excellent vigor. It can produce up to 50 flowers per plant in a season.

  • Height: 28–32 inches

  • Bloom Time: Mid to late spring

  • Best For: Brightening shaded areas or as a cut flower.

4. White Peonies with Vibrant Accents

While white peonies are often soft, some varieties feature vivid accents that make them pop.

• 'Command Performance'

  • Type: Herbaceous

  • Color: Creamy white with pink-to-red center flares

  • Description: This double-flowered peony has large, snowy-white petals with striking pinkish-red markings at the base, creating a vibrant contrast. Its fragrance adds to its appeal.

  • Height: 32–38 inches

  • Bloom Time: Mid to late spring

  • Best For: Elegant arrangements or moonlight gardens.

Growing Tips for Vibrant Peonies

• Light: Plant in full sun (6+ hours daily) for the most intense colors, though some varieties tolerate partial shade.

• Soil: Use well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH. Amend with compost for best results.

• Planting: Plant peony roots in fall, with eyes (buds) no deeper than 2 inches below the soil surface to ensure blooming.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during establishment.

• Support: Use peony rings or stakes for double-flowered varieties to prevent heavy blooms from flopping.

• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring to boost growth and color vibrancy.

Choosing the Right Variety

• For Bold Reds: Choose 'Red Charm' for classic red or 'Buckeye Belle' for a deeper, moody tone.

• For Vivid Pinks: 'Coral Charm' and 'Pink Hawaiian Coral' offer tropical vibrancy.

• For Bright Yellows: 'Bartzella' and 'Garden Treasure' are top picks for sunny, standout blooms.

• For Contrasting Accents: 'Command Performance' combines white elegance with vibrant center flares.

These peony varieties are celebrated for their vivid colors and reliable performance, making them perfect for gardeners seeking a bold, colorful display. Select based on your climate, bloom time preferences, and garden aesthetic for the best results.