Tree Peony Paeonia x suffruticosa

Tree Peony, despite its name, is an erect and coarsely branched, flowering, deciduous shrub that grows up to 6.5 ft. tall. It is in the peony family (Paeoniaceae). This species is an ancient cultigen from China derived from the hybridization of P. jishanensis and P. rockii. Paeonia is the classical Greek name for peony. The epithet, suffruticosa, means "somewhat shrubby."

This plant blooms in mid- to late spring, and the flowers are exceptionally large. One specimen plant can produce 75–100 blossoms during the 2-month flowering period. Too much shade or competition from tree roots inhibits flowering. Stems are brittle and need to be staked or protected from the wind. Most cultivars need a long winter chill to flower well. Consequently, in the southernmost part of its range (Zone 8), it may not flower reliably. This plant is tolerant of partial shade, alkaline soils, heat, deer, and rabbit browsing. It requires moist, well-drained and fertile soils. It is intolerant of drought. Prune this plant only to shape it; do not cut the stems to the ground in winter as with herbaceous peonies. 

Insects, Diseases,and Other Plant Problems:  Ants commonly seen on peonies are harmless.  Canker, leaf blight and stem wilt occasionally afflict the plant.

Quick ID Hints:

• Deciduous shrub with twice-compound, lobed leaves
• Gigantic, fragrant flowers on slender, brittle stems
• Stamen filaments are violet-red, and there are many concave petals.