Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’: A Captivating Red Peony
Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’, also known as Paeonia lactiflora ‘Buckeye Belle’, Paeonia ‘Buckeye Belle’, or simply Peony ‘Buckeye Belle’, is a stunning herbaceous perennial that belongs to the Paeoniaceae family. Renowned for its deep red flowers and vigorous growth habit, this clump-forming peony is a popular choice among gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike. With its striking blooms and attractive foliage, Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’ adds elegance and charm to any garden or floral arrangement.
Appearance and Growth Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’ showcases a bushy and compact growth habit, forming attractive clumps of foliage that serve as a beautiful backdrop for its vibrant flowers. The deeply-cut leaves emerge reddish in color and gradually transform into a lush, dark green as they mature. This foliage remains visually appealing throughout the growing season, providing an attractive backdrop for the stunning blooms that emerge in late spring and continue into the summer months.
The semi-double flowers of Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’ are the true stars of the plant. These captivating blooms boast a deep red hue, exuding an air of elegance and sophistication. The petals surround contrasting yellow stamens, creating a visually striking display that is sure to capture attention. The flowers typically last for about 10 days during the peak spring blooming period and can also be enjoyed as cut flowers, brightening up indoor arrangements for up to a week.
How to grow Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’:
To successfully cultivate Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’ and ensure its optimal growth and bloom production, it is essential to provide the right growing conditions and care. Consider the following factors when cultivating this captivating red peony:
Light Requirements: Plant Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’ in a location that receives ample sunlight. While it can tolerate some shade, it thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. Adequate sunlight promotes robust growth and enhances flower production, ensuring a vibrant and healthy plant.
Soil Preference: Ensure that the soil for Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’ is humus-rich, fertile, and well-drained. This peony prefers moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Prepare the planting area by incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Staking and Support: Depending on the specific growth habit and the size of the blooms, Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’ may benefit from some form of staking or support. The robust stems and heavy flowers can sometimes require assistance to maintain an upright posture and prevent bending or breakage. Use stakes or supportive structures early in the season to provide necessary support and maintain the plant’s aesthetic appeal.
Planting Time: The ideal time to plant Paeonia broteri ‘Buckeye Belle’ is in early autumn. By planting during this season, the peony has ample time to establish its root system before the arrival of the flowering season. This ensures that the plant is well-prepared to produce a stunning display of blooms the following spring.
