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The Wondrous Bloom of the Peony

09 June 2011

One of the best parts of summer is being able to admire your neighbours’ gardens.  It’s one of the few times when stopping and staring is acceptable.  Lately, it’s been the peony that has been catching our attention. 

Peonies have a rich history dating back over 2000 years with the earliest species originating from China.  Apart from ornamental gardens, peonies have been used for medicinal purposes including curing nightmares, stomach and tooth aches, jaundice and numerous other ailments.  The name peony is said to be derived from Paeon (or Paean), a helper of Aesculapius (god of medicine).   Jealous of Paeon’s success in healing others, Aesculapius “had him killed, but in gratitude for his healing touch, Ares (god of war) turned him into an exquisitely beautiful flowering plant – a peony.” 1 


 
Peonies are characterized by their fine, long stems and perfectly round, gumball-like buds.    Don’t be deceived by their unassuming nature.  When in full bloom, peonies are quite spectacular.  Some might argue they are more striking than a rose.  The flowers are available in a broad spectrum of colours from white to pink, red, maroon, lavender, yellow and coral.  Their scent can be sweet and sometimes spicy but best of all, no pesky thorns. 




If you’re like a lot of Torontonians with limited outdoor space to grow a peony, feel free to stop by and see our collection of cut peonies.  They typically last for up to 4-5 days and are a beautiful addition to an arrangement or a centrepiece. Oh, and staring is allowed. 

- The Pistil Team

¹ Knap, S. (2003). Potted Histories, London: Co & Bear Productions (UK) Ltd. 

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