Peony

PaeoniaSuffruticosa7

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Paeonia-suffruticosa-buds

Paeonia ludlowii Spring bud elongation lateral view

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Paeonia

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Paeonia vetchii feuille

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Paeonia 2015-04-16 183

Peony (Paeonia) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Paeoniaceae. They are native to Asia, Europe, and Western North America. Peonies are well-known for their large, often fragrant flowers and have been cultivated for centuries both for their ornamental qualities and their use in traditional medicine. The genus includes both herbaceous perennial plants and woody shrubs, which are known as tree peonies.

Description

Peonies have compound, deeply lobed leaves, large, often fragrant flowers ranging in color from red to white or yellow, which bloom in late spring and early summer. The plants can reach up to 0.5 to 1.5 meters in height, depending on the species. Peonies are long-lived plants that can flourish in the same location for up to 100 years if undisturbed.

Cultivation

Peonies prefer a temperate climate, well-drained soil, and full to partial sunlight. They are propagated by root division in autumn and are relatively low maintenance once established. Peonies are susceptible to diseases such as botrytis blight and peony wilt, as well as pests like the peony borer.

Uses

While peonies are predominantly grown for their ornamental value in gardens and floral arrangements, they also have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. Peony roots, particularly those of Paeonia lactiflora, have been used to treat various conditions, including menstrual cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, and abdominal pain.

Varieties

There are over 30 species of peony, with numerous cultivars and hybrids. Some popular varieties include:

• Paeonia lactiflora – Known as the Chinese peony, it is widely cultivated for its large, fragrant flowers.
• Paeonia suffruticosa – The tree peony, which grows as a woody shrub and produces large, colorful blooms.
• Paeonia officinalis – The common European peony, which has been used in traditional medicine.

Cultural Significance

Peonies have significant cultural importance in many parts of the world. In China, the peony is considered the "king of flowers" and symbolizes wealth, honor, and high social status. It is also the state flower of Indiana, USA.

Conservation

Some peony species are considered at risk due to habitat loss and over-collection. Conservation efforts are in place in some regions to protect these species and their natural habitats.