Description of the 25 best varieties of tree peonies with photos and names

Tree peony is a deciduous shrub, 1.5 to 2 m high. The stems are thick, straight, light brown. Unlike the herbaceous peony, the shoots do not dry out in the autumn, growing more and more every year. The leaves of the plant are openwork and double pinnate.

Inflorescences, 12-20 cm or more in diameter, are located on the tips of the shoots.Flowers of double, semi-double and simple form can be colored white, red, yellow, pink, lilac. Two-color specimens especially attract attention.
Flowering of tree peonies begins 2 weeks earlier than herbaceous peonies and lasts 14-21 days, increasing the number of buds every year.

Content:

White varieties of tree peonies
Tree peonies with red flowers
Yellow peonies
Varieties with unusual colors
Planting and care

The great advantage of such plants is their high winter hardiness, which allows them to be grown in almost all regions of Russia.

Currently, about 500 varieties of tree peonies have been registered. This page contains descriptions of the most decorative varieties with names that will help in choosing peonies to decorate your garden plot.

Tree peonies with white flowers

Scent of Lily (Zhong sheng bai)

The Smell of Lily variety is a tall bush with a large number of snow-white flowers with shiny petals. In the center of the inflorescences there is a bright yellow crown of stamens.

The peony grows quickly and bushes well. The variety got its name due to the similarity of the smell of its flowers with the aroma of lilies, which, unfortunately, cannot be conveyed through photos..

The height of an adult bush is 1.5 m.
Flowering begins in June.
The flowers are semi-double, 16 cm in diameter, the aroma is bright and memorable.
Frost resistance zone – 4 (Moscow and Moscow region).

The variety is valued for its early lush flowering and looks good in compositions with deciduous and coniferous species.

Anastasia Sosnovets

The bush is semi-spreading, the stems are strong. The inflorescences are cup-shaped with a 2-row corolla, located above the bush.

The color is dazzling white with a purple spot at the base of the petals.The stamen filaments are light, the stigmas are light yellow.

The height of an adult bush is 1.2 m.
Flowering begins on June 10.
The flowers are simple, 16-20 cm in diameter, with a strong aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 30-50 pcs.
Prefers drained soils without stagnant moisture.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

Maria

A large white flower with a pink center, two-row petals. The bush is semi-spreading, with strong shoots. There is one flower on the peduncle, it does not droop.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1 m.
Flowering from May 23 to June 3.
The flowers are semi-double, hemispherical in shape, 18-23 cm in diameter, with a pleasant aroma.
Resistant to fungal diseases.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

Strong stems allow the Maria variety to be used for landscaping and cutting.

Snow Tower

An easily recognizable variety by its anemone-like flowers. The petals are pink-peach at the base and fade to white towards the edges. The inner petals are long and narrow, slightly serrated along the edges. There are few stamens. Flowers look up.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1.2-1.8 m.
Flowering lasts 2 weeks in May-June.
The flowers are double, crown-shaped, 20 cm in diameter, with a delicate aroma.
A profusely flowering plant.
Frost resistance zone – 4 (Moscow and Moscow region).

Peony flower petals are quite edible and can be added to salads and jams.

White Jade

An ancient variety of tree peony, which is distinguished by its snow-white petals and golden corolla of numerous stamens. Flowers in the shape of a lotus look advantageous against the background of dark green carved foliage.

The height of an adult bush is 1.5-1.7 m.
Flowering occurs in May-June for 12-14 days.
The flowers are semi-double, 17 cm in diameter, with a delicate, sweetish aroma.
The number of buds on an adult plant is 25-50 pcs.
Frost resistance zone – 4 (Moscow and Moscow region).

Thanks to their rigid flower stalks, peonies look great in a bouquet.

Silk Veil (Gui Fu Ren)

One of the best double white tree peonies. Huge, dazzling white flowers bloom from green buds with a dark purple spot at the base of the leaves. The background for such splendor is the gray-green leaves on strong stems.

The height of an adult bush is 1.2-1.5 m.
Flowering begins in mid-June.
Double flowers, 20 cm in diameter, delicate aroma.
The number of buds on an adult plant is 40-60 pcs.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

Red varieties of tree peonies

Red giant (Da hu hong)

The Red Giant peony variety is characterized by short stems and vertically growing red crown-shaped flowers. The mature plant is characterized by vigorous growth. It droops slightly.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1.5 m.
Flowering is later, begins in mid-June and lasts 2 weeks.
Double flowers, 16 cm in diameter, rich in aroma.
Characterized by abundant flowering.
Prefers not too heavy loamy soil, quite fertile.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

The variety has large, beautiful leaves and looks good both in single plantings and in compositions.

Giant Hemosa

One of the best tree peonies, this tall shrub is abundantly strewn with light red inflorescences. It has large foliage and is often used in group plantings and as a hedge.

The height of an adult bush is 2 m.
Blooms in June for 14 days.
The flowers are double, crown-shaped, 16 cm in diameter, strong aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 40-70 pcs.
The plant is resistant to many flower diseases and tolerates pest attacks well.
Frost resistance zone – 4 (Moscow and Moscow region).

After flowering ends, the plant looks attractive due to the decorative foliage

Scarlet sail

The color of the petals is deep purple. When the buds are fully open, a crown of bright yellow stamens stands out noticeably in the center. The shrub has large bright green carved leaves and is considered one of the most frost-resistant varieties.

The height of an adult bush reaches 2 m.
Flowering begins in late April - early May and lasts 2 weeks.
The flowers are double, crown-shaped, 16 cm in diameter, with a subtle aroma.
The number of buds is large on an adult plant, up to 70 pcs.
Frost resistance zone – all regions, -40°С.

Coral Island (Shan Hu Tai)

The color of the flowers of this variety is a rich coral color, the edges of the petals are scalloped, with a pale pink border. The Coral Island variety is unpretentious and disease resistant.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1.8 m.
Flowering begins in late May - early June.
Double flowers, 15-18 cm in diameter. The number of buds on an adult plant is 30-70 pcs.
Prefers fertile, alkaline, well-drained soils.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

They do not require shelter for the winter and do not have special care requirements. It is rightfully considered one of the best representatives of the tree peony family.

Black Pirate

The inflorescences of the Black Pirate variety are dark cherry with a black tint. The stamens in the center are yellow.

The bushes are compact, allowing them to be grown in containers. Bright, original flowers are favorably set off by the expressiveness of light green, carved leaves.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1.1 - 1.5 m.
Flowering begins in mid-June and lasts 14 days.
The flowers are semi-double, reach 15 cm in diameter, the aroma is bright and rich.
The number of buds on an adult plant is 45-80 pcs.
Frost resistance zone – 4 (Moscow and Moscow region).

Hoffman

The peony variety Hoffmann has inflorescences of a soft pink hue, and there are crimson spots at the base of the petals. The bush is spreading, with strong shoots. There is only one flower on a peduncle.

The height of an adult bush is 1.2 m.
Flowering: late May – early June; blooms for 10-14 days.
The flowers are semi-double, 16-18 cm in diameter, light aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 30-50 pcs.
Prefers fertile soil and sun.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

The Hoffman variety, due to its compactness, is excellent for decorative flower beds.

Peter the Great

The inflorescence is a rich lilac color with purple veins. The stamen filaments are crimson, this is clearly visible in the photo. The bush is spreading, with dense foliage. Peduncles are strong.

The height of an adult plant reaches 1-1.3 m.
Flowering begins at the end of May, for 10-11 days.
Flowers are semi-double, 20-25 cm in diameter, fragrant. The number of buds on an adult plant is 40-60 pcs.
Prefers sunny places, loose fertile soils.
Frost resistance zone - all regions, withstands -35°C.

The variety is resistant to diseases. Recommended for decorative flower beds and cuttings.

Black Panther

The flower is the color of dark mahogany with chocolate, almost black reflections. The petals are very shiny and silky. The filaments are red.

The bush is wide, prone to the formation of abundant growth. It can grow in one place without transplanting for more than 20 years.

The height of an adult bush is 2 m.
Flowering begins at the end of May and lasts 2 weeks.
The flowers are semi-double, 15-20 cm in diameter, rich in aroma.
The number of buds on an adult plant is 30-70 pcs.
Frost resistance zone - all regions, withstands -35°C.

Imperial crown

The Imperial Crown peony is characterized by huge semi-double flowers. The color of the central petals is purple-red. The outer petals are shorter and darker in color. The petals are longer in the middle.

The height of an adult bush is 1.7 m.
Flowering begins in May and lasts 2 weeks.
Double flowers, 25 cm in diameter, rich in aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 20-60 pcs.
Prefers light loamy nutrient soil. Does not like excessive moisture.
Frost resistance zone – 2, withstands -40°C.

The variety forms buds on last year's shoots. The flowers do not fade for a long time and are great for cutting.

Varieties with yellow flowers

Age of Gold

Bushes of this variety attract attention with large lemon-colored, spherical inflorescences. This is a traditional American variety.

The plant tolerates drought well. Flowers do not fade in the sun. The foliage is green, bright, abundant.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1 m.
Flowering occurs in June and lasts 2 weeks.
The flowers are semi-double, 15 cm in diameter, light aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 40-80 pcs.
The plant is drought-resistant and can withstand lack of watering.
Frost resistance zone – 4 (Moscow and Moscow region).

One of the best varieties of tree peonies, awarded the prestigious gold medal of the American Peony Society in 1973.

Kuindzhi

The yellow petals are colored black at the base of the outer petals. The filaments are red, the anthers are yellow.

The bush is spreading. The buds open quickly.The variety is resistant to diseases and pests. Recommended for landscaping in the middle zone and southern regions of Russia.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1.0-1.5 m.
Flowering is late and short-lived.
The flowers are simple, cup-shaped, 14-15 cm in diameter, persistent aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 50-90 pcs.
Overmoistening and low temperatures contribute to the development of gray rot.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

Primavere

The flower is anemone-shaped, with canary-colored petals in the center and milky white at the edges. Due to its compactness, it is quite suitable for growing in containers.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1 m.
Flowering occurs in mid-late June.
Double flowers, 20-25 cm in diameter, delicate, pleasant aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 50-80 pcs.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

Yao's Yellow

An excellent variety with yellow flowers, crown-shaped. Blooms early and profusely.

The height of an adult bush reaches 2 m.
Flowering begins in mid-May and lasts 12-14 days.
The flowers are double, 20-25 cm in diameter, the aroma is light and pleasant. The number of buds on an adult plant is 30-70 pcs.
Prefers fertile, alkaline, well-drained soils.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

Varieties of peonies with unusual colors

The Qiao Sisters (Hua er qiao)

The Sister Kiao peony is characterized by an unusual combination of two contrasting shades of inflorescences. One part of the double flower is crimson, the second is white and pink.

The number of dark and light petals differs on different inflorescences. At the same time, the core of the flower is golden-yellow, which in combination with two-color petals looks very elegant. The photo shows that not a single flower is alike.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1.5 m.
Flowering begins in June and lasts 3-4 weeks.
Terry inflorescences, 14-16 cm in diameter, weak aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 30-40 pcs.
Prefers sunny locations and rich, well-drained soils.
Frost resistance zone - 4 (Moscow and Moscow region).

The variety is characterized by abundant flowering.

Red Wiz Pink (Red With Pink)

The flowers are large, double, with wavy edges. The cherry-red petals have delicate pink touches, and each flower is different from each other.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1.2 m.
Flowering begins in early June and lasts 2 weeks.
Double flowers, 16 cm in diameter.
Prefers loamy or sandy loam, nutritious and well-drained soil, sunny places.
Frost resistance zone – 4 (Moscow and Moscow region).

Green ball

The Green Ball variety is distinguished by soft green terry buds of a spherical shape, which change their color to pink when blooming. The petals are located tightly to each other.

The plant has thick, erect stems.

The height of an adult bush is 2 m.
Flowering is later, in June-July, and lasts 2-3 weeks.
Double flowers, 20 cm in diameter, persistent aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 40-60 pcs.
Prefers well-lit areas and loose, well-fertilized soil.
Frost resistance zone – 2 (Siberia, Ural, Far East).

During the first flowering, 1-2 buds appear, but they must be removed. this will allow the root system to develop better and provide the plant with adequate nutrition

Blue sapphire

The flower of this peony is pinkish with a crimson center. Decorative leaves, together with large, bright inflorescences will not leave anyone indifferent.

The Blue Sapphire variety will decorate not only a garden with a minimum of plantings, but will also not go unnoticed in group plantings.

The height of an adult bush reaches 1.2 m.
Flowering begins in June and lasts 14 days.
Double flowers, 16-18 cm in diameter, delicate aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 50 pcs.
The plant is unpretentious and grows well in shaded areas.
Frost resistance zone – 2, (Siberia, Ural, Far East).

Green Jade

A distinctive feature of the tree peony of this variety is its amazing green flowers. The flowers are round, double and quite large. In the center of the bud, the petals are located tightly to each other. The stems of this plant are strong.

The height of an adult bush is 1.5 m.
Flowering begins in April and lasts until early June.
Double flowers, 13-15 cm in diameter, weak aroma. The number of buds on an adult plant is 30-50 pcs.
Prefers sunlight and grows well in sheltered areas.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

Shima Nishiki

The spectacular variety is distinguished by the combination of several shades in one flower: white, red and pink.

No two identical flowers can be found on one plant. Large double petals are arranged around a dark yellow core.

The height of an adult bush is 1.5 m.
Flowering occurs in May-June.
The flowers are semi-double, 15-18 cm in diameter, the aroma is honey-cinnamon with notes of orange and lavender. The number of buds on an adult plant is 20-30 pcs.
Frost resistance zone – all regions.

Planting and care

Location tree peony on the site should not be random. To plant the crop, choose a place far from tall trees, in partial shade, without drafts.

soil Peonies prefer alkaline, permeable, fertile soil containing rotted manure and compost. It won't hurt to add bone meal and superphosphate to the soil. Add 200-300 g/sq.m. to acidic soil. m of lime, in clayey ones - sand, in sandy ones - clay.

It is better to plan the planting of tree peonies for the period from mid-August to the end of September. In spring, planting is possible only for specimens with a closed root system.

Landing rules:

The hole for planting is prepared in advance, 1.5-2 shovels deep.
A cone of soil is poured into the hole, the plant is placed on it and watered abundantly so that all the roots are straightened.
After the water is absorbed, the hole is covered with earth, while the root collar of the peony should be at soil level. Grafted plants are planted so that the grafting site is 10-15 cm below the soil surface. After 2-3 years, the scion forms its own roots.
A distance of up to 1.5 m is maintained between two seedlings. The tree trunk circle is not compacted.

Don't forget to read:

Description of the best varieties of herbaceous peonies with photos and names ⇒

Basic elements of caring for tree peonies

Care for peonies begins with sanitary pruning in early spring, before the start of the growing season. It is necessary to cut out dried shoots and shorten old ones. After flowering, it is recommended to trim the faded shoots to the upper axillary bud. After this procedure, the bush will bloom even more profusely next year.

Top dressing should be moderate, since with an overdose of nitrogen, peonies become susceptible to gray rot. At the slightest sign of peony disease, it is necessary to cut off the affected shoots and burn them.

Loosening of the tree trunk circle should be regular. Before flowering, add a complex of fertilizers (potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen).

Wintering peonies are better tolerated in dry soil. If there is excessive humidity, the peony freezes. In rainy autumn, it is better to cover young plants with a canopy made of any material at hand that allows air to pass through. Mature bushes with a branched root system are not covered. Such plants will recover on their own. If the peony is still frozen, you should wait until June. If there is no active vegetation in June, the shoots are cut back to the first living bud. After this procedure, the tree peony, as a rule, quickly produces new shoots and may even bloom.