Ellermann Flower Boutique Guide to the Best Peonies for Longer-Lasting Blooms

Peonies are beloved for their lush, vibrant blooms and delightful fragrance, but their bloom time can be fleeting. Selecting peony varieties known for extended bloom periods and proper care can help maximize their display. This Ellermann Florist guide highlights the best peony types for longer-lasting blooms and tips to ensure their longevity.

Understanding Peony Types

Peonies come in three main types: herbaceous, tree, and intersectional (Itoh). Each has unique characteristics affecting bloom duration:

• Herbaceous Peonies: Die back to the ground each winter. Many modern hybrids are bred for extended bloom times.

• Tree Peonies: Woody shrubs with larger, longer-lasting flowers, often blooming for up to two weeks.

• Intersectional (Itoh) Peonies: Hybrids of herbaceous and tree peonies, combining sturdy stems and prolonged blooming periods.

Best Peony Varieties for Longer-Lasting Blooms

Below are top peony varieties known for extended bloom times, based on their flowering duration and resilience. These selections are widely recognized by horticulturists and growers for their ability to maintain blooms longer than average (typically 7–14 days per plant, with proper care).

Herbaceous Peonies

1. ‘Festiva Maxima’

   • Bloom Time: Early to mid-season (late spring, ~2 weeks).

   • Description: Classic double white flowers with crimson flecks. Strong stems resist drooping, and blooms hold well in cool conditions.

   • Why It Lasts: Sturdy structure and early blooming avoid heat stress, extending flower life.

2. ‘Sarah Bernhardt’

   • Bloom Time: Mid to late-season (early summer, ~10–14 days).

   • Description: Large, double pink flowers with a soft fragrance. A reliable bloomer in many climates.

   • Why It Lasts: Thick petals and robust stems help blooms withstand weather changes.

3. ‘Coral Charm’

   • Bloom Time: Early season (late spring, ~10–12 days).

   • Description: Unique semi-double coral-peach flowers that fade gracefully to cream. Vibrant color holds well.

   • Why It Lasts: Semi-double form is less heavy, reducing petal drop.

Tree Peonies

1. ‘Shimadaijin’

   • Bloom Time: Mid-season (late spring to early summer, ~12–16 days).

   • Description: Large, semi-double purple-red flowers with a silky texture. Blooms are less prone to fading.

   • Why It Lasts: Tree peonies naturally have longer bloom periods, and this variety’s sturdy petals resist wilting.

2. ‘High Noon’

   • Bloom Time: Mid to late-season (early summer, ~14 days).

   • Description: Bright yellow single to semi-double flowers. Strong woody stems support prolonged blooming.

   • Why It Lasts: Single-form flowers are less prone to rot in humid conditions, extending display time.

Intersectional (Itoh) Peonies

1. ‘Bartzella’

   • Bloom Time: Mid to late-season (early summer, ~12–15 days).

   • Description: Large, double yellow flowers with a slight red center. Vigorous and disease-resistant.

   • Why It Lasts: Combines the durability of tree peonies with herbaceous reliability, resulting in extended blooms.

2. ‘Cora Louise’

   • Bloom Time: Mid-season (late spring to early summer, ~10–14 days).

   • Description: Semi-double white flowers with lavender-pink flares. Strong stems prevent flopping.

   • Why It Lasts: Intersectional vigor ensures blooms hold up well against weather fluctuations.

Tips for Maximizing Peony Bloom Longevity

To extend the bloom time of these peony varieties, follow these care practices:

1. Choose the Right Location:

   • Plant in full sun (6+ hours daily) with well-drained soil to promote healthy blooms.

   • Avoid overly wet or shady spots, which can shorten bloom life.

2. Timing and Deadheading:

   • Select varieties with staggered bloom times (early, mid, and late-season) to extend the overall peony season in your garden.

   • Remove spent flowers to redirect energy and maintain plant vigor.

3. Water and Fertilize Properly:

   • Water consistently but avoid waterlogging. Peonies prefer slightly moist soil.

   • Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring to support robust blooms.

4. Protect from Heat and Rain:

   • In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent petal scorching.

   • Use stakes or cages for double-flowered varieties to prevent heavy blooms from drooping in rain.

5. Cut Flowers for Indoor Use:

   • Harvest peonies in the “soft marshmallow” stage (buds soft to the touch but not fully open) for vase life up to 10 days.

   • Store cut stems in a cool, dark place (e.g., refrigerator) to slow opening and extend display.

Additional Considerations

• Climate Adaptation: Check USDA hardiness zones (most peonies thrive in zones 3–8). Varieties like ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ and ‘Bartzella’ are adaptable to a wide range of climates.

• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for botrytis blight or powdery mildew, which can shorten bloom life. Use fungicides sparingly and ensure good air circulation.

• Succession Planting: Combine early, mid, and late-season varieties for a display lasting up to 6 weeks in your garden.

By selecting these long-blooming peony varieties and following proper care techniques, you can enjoy their stunning flowers for an extended period each season. For further details on specific varieties or suppliers, consult local nurseries or reputable online sources like the American Peony Society.