One of the longest-lived perennials -- if properly planted -- a peony can outlive the person who planted it. It may even outlive his or her children and grandchildren. Pricey, but well worth the time and investment.
'Paula Fay' is always the first to show her lovely face in my garden. Beautiful, vibrant pink petals with yellow centers will put a smile on anyone's face. They make beautiful cut flowers. I would not recommend using them in a mixed bouquet unless they are very tight buds just starting to open. Once open, they last just a few days and emit an unpleasant odor.
Let's take a look.
'Paula Fay' grows on strong, upright waxy green stems and foliage. The blooms are not heavy like some of the fuller peonies, so they don't have to be supported.
{buds starting to open}
{in full bloom }
Once open, the petals fade to a lighter translucent shade. They almost look like tissue paper. I've had many people ask if they are real when I bring them inside.
Because they are so spectacular, they look best on their own.
Or, display them in groups of three.
{bubble milk vases from chive.com}
{snartig vases from IKEA -- $.79 cents each!}
Visit Walter Reeves for tips on how to grow peonies in the south and which varieties do best here.
Starting to bloom: 'Festiva Maxima' and 'Mons. Jules Elie.'
They are spectacular. Peonies, viburnum, azaleas...you must have a beautiful garden! I look forward to seeing and reading about what blooms next.
ReplyDeleteWow, they are gorgeous...and your pictures captured their essence, perfectly. If I didn't have a black thumb maybe I'd plant some ;)
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