Cut peonies are a beloved choice for floral arrangements and bouquets, adding elegance and charm to any setting. Whether purchased from farmers’ markets, or flower shops, or picked from your own garden, these stunning blooms are a delight to behold. Here are some details about cut peonies and the different types available:
Longevity and Blooming: Cut peonies have an impressive vase life, typically lasting for a week or more when properly cared for. The key to enjoying their beauty for an extended period is to select buds that are in the “marshmallow” stage, showing some softness but still closed. Patience is required as they open and bloom fully within a day or two, revealing their magnificent petals.
Types of Peonies:
a. Herbaceous Peonies: Herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora) are the most common and widely recognized type. They have lush, bushy foliage and produce large, showy flowers in various colors, including shades of pink, white, red, and coral. These peonies die back to the ground in winter and regrow from underground roots each spring.
b. Tree Peonies: Tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa) are woody-stemmed shrubs that provide an exquisite display of flowers. They produce large, often fragrant blooms in a range of colors, including pastels, bold hues, and even bi-color varieties. Tree peonies have a longer lifespan compared to herbaceous peonies and can grow into stunning, long-lived focal points in the garden.
c. Itoh Hybrids: Itoh hybrids (Paeonia x Itoh) is a cross between herbaceous and tree peonies, combining the best qualities of both. They exhibit the large, colorful flowers of tree peonies but have the herbaceous growth habit, making them easier to care for. Itoh hybrids are highly sought after for their unique flower forms and stunning color combinations.
Care Tips:
- Upon receiving or cutting peonies, immediately place the stems in a clean vase filled with room temperature water.
- Remove any foliage that would be submerged in water to prevent bacterial growth.
- Cut the stems at a diagonal angle to allow better water absorption.
- To encourage opening, place the vase in a bright, indirect light location.
- Change the water every two days to keep it fresh and clear of any bacteria.
- Consider adding flower preservatives or a small amount of sugar to the water to nourish the blooms and prolong their vase life.
- Keep peonies away from direct sunlight, drafts, and sources of heat, as these factors can accelerate wilting.
Cut peonies are a wonderful choice for various occasions, from weddings and special events to simple home decorations. Their beauty, fragrance, and wide range of colors make them highly versatile and sought after by flower enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed in a vase or adorning a floral arrangement, cut peonies bring joy and a touch of elegance to any space.
