11 Surprising Facts About Peonies & Their Powerful Symbolism
If you’ve ever been enchanted by a bouquet of peony, you’re not alone. The fluffy, fragrant peony blooms aren’t just beautiful—they’re full of surprises too! Did you know some peony blossoms can grow as wide as 10 inches? Or that you can actually refrigerate their buds and enjoy them months after their natural season?
Yes ! Peonies are more than just beautiful flowers—they’re a kind of floral obsession. Curious? Here are 11 fascinating facts about peonies that will deepen your love for them!
17 Surprising Facts About Peonies
1. The Name “Peony “comes from Greek mythology.
The peony is named after Paeon, a student of Asclepius, the Greek god of healing. According to legend, Paeon, known for his healing abilities, used a peony to treat Zeus’s wound. Jealous of his gifted student, Asclepius threatened Paeon, but Zeus rescued him by transforming him into a beautiful flower, the peony.
2. The Peony Has Centuries of History
- Peonies originated in Asia, Europe, and Western North America, and have been historically important in China, where they were cultivated since at least 1000 BC.
- Their popularity began in Japan during the early 11th century and later spread to France and England in the 18th century.
- In the late 1800s and early 1900s, peonies became popular in the U.S., and they were designated as Indiana’s state flower in 1957.
- Notable breeders like Monsieur Lemoine in France and James Kelway in Great Britain contributed to the development of new varieties in the 19th century.
3. Peonies Symbolize Romance and Prosperity
During the Victorian Era, peonies symbolized shame and shyness. In China, they are known as the “King of Flowers” and represent wealth and honor, while in Japan, they symbolize positive virtues like bravery, honor, respect, nobility, good fortune, and prosperity.
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4. Peonies are Popular Cut Flower
Peonies are loved for their beautiful, romantic appearance and how long they last in a vase. If you want to grow your own peonies, it’s best to wait until the plants are at least three years old so they can produce plenty of flowers. When you’re ready to cut the stems, make sure to do it when the buds are nice and plump and starting to open up for the best results. Some great types of peonies to consider for creating lovely arrangements are ‘Coral Charm’, ‘Myrtle Gentry’, and ‘Better Times’.
5. Peonies Are a Popular Wedding Flower
Peonies are popular cut flowers often chosen by brides for their symbolism of romance, love, prosperity, and happy marriages. They are the traditional flower for 12th wedding anniversaries and are a staple in modern bridal arrangements.
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6. Peonies Have a Short Blooming Season
Peony season typically runs from late April to early June, making them a luxurious and somewhat exclusive choice. With careful selection, they can bloom for months. The lemon-yellow Paeonia mlokosewitschii, or ‘Molly the witch,’ flowers in April. Early herbaceous varieties like ‘Rubra Plena’ bloom in May, while later ones like ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ can last until the end of June.
7. Peonies Can Live for Over 100 Years
Once planted, peony bushes can live and bloom for over a century, making them a legacy plant often passed down through generations.
8. Peonies Come in Many Colors, Each with Its Own Meaning
- White Peonies: Purity and elegance
- Pink Peonies: Romance and compassion
- Red Peonies: Passion and honor
- Yellow Peonies: New beginnings and joy
9. Peonies thrive in sunlight and need at least six hours of direct light each day.
10. They Have Medicinal Roots
In ancient times, peony roots were used to treat headaches, asthma, and even epilepsy. While not used medicinally today, they hold an important place in herbal history.
11. Peonies Attract Ants (and That’s a Good Thing!)
Ants are drawn to the sugary nectar of peony buds. In return, they help the flowers open and deter harmful pests.
12. Peonies Are a Favourite in Perfumes
Their soft, sweet fragrance makes them a staple in luxury perfumes. The scent of peonies adds a romantic, powdery note that’s hard to resist.
13. Peonies Are a Top Choice for Home Décor
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14. The pink peony flowers are more fragrant than the maroon flowers.
15. Partially cooked and sweetened petals of peony are consumed as dessert in China.
16. Peonies come in every colour but blue.
17. Deer and rabbits dislike peonies.
Why Peonies Are Always in Style?
Whether you’re picking out bridal flowers, planning an anniversary, or simply want to brighten your space, peonies are a timeless option full of meaning and elegance.
Final Tip: Peonies are more than just pretty petals—they’re a symbol of timeless love, prosperity, and elegance. Whether you’re sending a message of affection or enhancing your home, peonies make every moment bloom!
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