One of the secrets of landscape design is the combination of plants of different heights. The mutually successful arrangement of low and high forms emphasizes the advantages of each other, and also serves as a decoration for the flaws of the garden plot. It doesn't have to be professional specialist to design your own garden. But every gardener needs to know the advantages, disadvantages and subtleties of agricultural technology of plants cultivated on the site.
One of the semi-shrubs that has become fashionable in Lately, is different from its grassy counterpart in many respects. This is a hybrid variety from the peony family, bred in China in ancient times. There are about five hundred varieties of plants in their homeland. New species are also being successfully developed in Japan, where the cultivation of tree peony has been elevated to the rank of national tradition. Europeans first became acquainted with flowering shrubs in the 18th century, and since then its victorious march across the planet began.
In the diaries of travelers who visited the Land of the Rising Sun, the description of the tree peony contained the following lines: “A fragrant bush, in the shade of which you can hide, enjoying with delight its fragrant flowers, attracting both the human eye and numerous insects feasting on its nectar.” Indeed, the height of an adult hybrid varies from 1 to 2 meters.
Tree peonies are subshrubs with strong woody stems.
In autumn, sometimes their shoots do not die off, like those of herbaceous varieties, but from year to year they only become taller and stronger. During one season, the young bush adds 25-50 cm in height. The foliage of the hybrids is complex pinnate and lacy, the flowers are 12 cm or more. Among the varieties there are plants that form both double and simple buds, and the range of shades will be the envy of any artist. Woody hybrids bloom a couple of weeks earlier than herbaceous ones and remain in this form for 20-23 days.
Worthy representatives of the family - groups and varieties
The large number of varieties is not an easy task for classifying plants that is understandable to the common man. It will be useful for gardeners to know that tree peony varieties form three main groups:
- Plants in pink-red tones, with large, slightly drooping double flowers - the Chinese-European segment of hybrids.
- Subshrubs with small double or simple inflorescences protruding above the greenery - Japanese varieties.
- Woody plants that bloom in yellow-orange colors are considered derivatives of the Delaway peony and belong to the group of yellow peonies.
Yellow varieties of crops
Sunny-colored varieties are the youngest representatives of the species, which have no analogues among herbaceous representatives. These are modern, but rapidly gaining popularity varieties.
Red varieties are a popular classic
The most common tree peony is red, characterized by lush summer flowering. The height depends on the variety and varies from 1 to 1.8 meters. The flowers are simple or double, 15 to 18 cm in diameter. The most famous varieties: “Silk Road”, “Flight of the Swallow”, “Red Clouds of Baiyuan”. Late tree peony Red giant is a medium-sized plant up to 1.5 meters. Forms 30-70 flowers depending on the age of the bush. The diameter of the crown-shaped inflorescences is 16 cm. The variety is frost-resistant, prefers slightly shaded places with fertile light soil.
Shades of pink – tenderness and aroma
Not far behind the scarlet flowers in beauty is the pink tree peony, which has several dozen varieties. Its inflorescences can be double spherical, both in the “August” variety, and simple (“Anastasia Sosnowets”).
In June, the Sapphire tree peony blooms, a shrub with inflorescences up to 16-18 cm in diameter. This medium-sized plant, 120 cm high, produces 50 simple flowers with silky light pink petals and a scarlet core.
Fragrant tree peony Transparent dew in the segment of pink varieties is distinguished by the bluish tint of delicate spherical flowers. Flowering later. The length of the stems of an adult bush is 130-150 cm. The number of flowers with a diameter of 20 cm starts from 30 pieces.
Mid-early tree peony Blue sapphire belongs to the pink-red Chinese group of subshrubs. Blooms in mid-June. It is distinguished by the beauty of its openwork complex leaves and tall growth. The flowers are blue-pink, with purple splashes, and reach 16 cm in diameter.
Late-blooming tree peony Green Ball is a plant with large pink-shaped flowers, 18 cm in diameter. The peculiarity of the variety is that at first the bud opens with delicate greenish balls, gradually changing the color of the petals to a soft pink translucent. The color shades of pink varieties vary from light, almost white, to rich dark. The species are well preserved in winter, but are susceptible to some diseases of the species, for example, gray rot.
All the colors of the rainbow
Unique green tree peonies belong to the Chinese-European group. For their delicate light green color, breeders often give them names after legumes.
The Green Bean peony is the best known of the species, a late-blooming plant with large, spherical flowers. “Lotus” is a violet tree peony, the owner of giant flowers, their size is about 25 cm. And the plant itself is compact, 120-130 cm. It is a profusely flowering woody shrub in the shape of a hemisphere, each with 30-70 fragrant purple ones with a yellow center simple flowers.
In the climate of Russia, blue tree peony is a rare phenomenon; these are heat-loving varieties of the plant. One of the oldest varieties of white tree peony “Primavera”, translated as “Spring”, is similar to another early flower - narcissus. Its inflorescences are double, with a yellowish pompom in the center. No less famous is the “Silk Veil” variety, which has exotic simple flowers that are snow-white with a purple base of the petals.
A special group includes the yellow tree peony, which distinguishes several dozen varieties. The range of shades has hundreds of options. This is the most modern group peonies, which has its brightest representatives in our country: light yellow “Bartzella”, orange “Kinko”, pale greenish-yellow variety “Ozarenie”.
Tree-like flowering shrubs - subtleties and tricks of growing
A flowering subshrub, displacing more familiar herbaceous species in the hearts of gardeners, within 3-4 years it turns from a small seedling into a one and a half meter hemisphere, decorated with openwork foliage and fragrant flowers. But for such a wonderful change, it is necessary to provide the plant with the necessary conditions and care worthy of the “king of flowers”.
Planting and caring for a young plant - where to plant a seedling
A perennial of the peony family, it is a long-liver; its age can go back several decades, so planting a tree-like peony in a well-chosen place is of paramount importance in caring for it.
Unpretentious in general, this shrub does not tolerate unnecessary disturbance to the roots, so it cannot be transplanted from place to place. Finding a site for a peony for a long time is what you need to take care of when purchasing a young shoot. The soil requirements for all groups are the same - it must be neutral, loamy and fertile.
You need to know several nuances of choosing a landing site:
- peony prefers sunny, well-ventilated areas, but protected from drafts and sharp gusts of wind;
- should be considered large sizes an adult bush and think in advance about its proximity to other plants and construction projects in the garden;
- the most favorable place is a small hill, since spring flooding of the roots poses a considerable danger to the health of the plant.
In areas with high groundwater levels, care should be taken in advance about ways to drain them. Or arrange an artificial hill for the peony.
Before placing tree peony seedlings in the ground, you should take care of the favorable composition of the soil. This: 
- turf land;
- clay;
- peat;
- sand;
- humus.
The soil should be in required quantity all the nutrients that will give a start to the healthy growth and development of the seedling. If the soil of the site is acidic in composition, 1-2 cups of lime or bone meal should be added to the hole for the young bush.
How to plant a young bush correctly
The second most important task is how to plant a tree peony correctly. A hole is prepared for each seedling, at a distance of at least 2 meters from each other, 70-80 cm deep. Be sure to arrange a thick drainage layer (30-35 cm). Fertile soil is poured onto the drainage in the form of a hill, on which the seedling bush is placed. The roots are watered with enough water to straighten them out. Then they put enough soil into the hole so as not to cover the root collar. The seedling must be healthy, without visible damage, consist of 2-3 shoots with buds and healthy roots. The most suitable height for a young plant suitable for planting is 20-25 cm. The bush in the hole is watered abundantly, and the surface of the ground is sprinkled with dry soil or sand.
The time for the work described is autumn; planting a tree peony in the spring is irrational. In any months except August and September, propagating shrubs with seedlings carries the risk of getting a weak plant that is unable to cope with winter cold. A young tree peony in the spring will begin to actively develop the ground part - shoots and leaves, and to prepare for winter a healthy and strong root system. in the spring is possible only if it is a seedling not of a varietal type, but of a peony grafted onto a rootstock.
The Importance of Infant Growth
The first three to four years of shrub development are the most important. This time is the key to a healthy future and longevity. Timely and high-quality care for tree peony consists of following certain rules:
When the plant reaches the age of 3 years, seasonal crown formation begins. In the spring, remove weak branches damaged in winter. In autumn, the stems are trimmed to form a spherical crown.
Not only the shoots, but also the flowering parts of the plant require special treatment. Eat 
a few tricks on how to grow a tree peony with large flowers:
- in the first year of life, the blooming flowers are removed so that the plant “throws all its energy” into strengthening the roots;
- from the third year, a third of the formed buds are cut off from the bush so that the remaining ones are larger and more magnificent;
- after 10 years, to renew the bush, it is heavily pruned in the fall.
During the first two years, on a young shoot, flowers are formed that are far from varietal qualities. You should not accuse seedling suppliers of dishonesty until three years have passed. All the floral splendor begins precisely during the fourth spring-summer season of the bush’s life.
Growing from seeds - stages of a troublesome journey
If it is not possible to purchase seedlings, then tree peony propagation is carried out using seed material. You can buy it in a store or prepare it yourself. This process is not easy, troublesome, and has its own subtleties:
Patient and painstaking cultivation is complicated by the fact that a peony from seeds will delight you with flowers only after 5 years. There is no guarantee that the seeds will retain all varietal qualities, since many lignified peonies are hybrid varieties, so flowers on plants from seeds can become another source disappointments.
Decorate life with color and aroma
It is impossible to list all the varieties of flowering shrubs, much less describe all the variety of shapes and shades inherent in them. Growing tall bushes is becoming more and more popular every season. Moreover, tree peonies in landscape design capable of satisfying the most demanding tastes. These plants on the site will give you the aesthetic joy of admiring fantastic flowers of the most exotic colors. Of considerable importance in decorating life is the delicate but persistent aroma of fragrant bushes, spreading tens of meters around the floral splendor.
Peonies, the varieties of which differ in the shape and color of the buds, amaze even experienced gardeners with their diversity. They are one of the most favorite plants used for landscaping cottages and garden plots. Today there are about 5 thousand of the most diverse different varieties peonies. At the same time, breeders annually produce more and more new ones.
General description of the plant
Peony flowers are perennial herbaceous plants of the Peony family. Shrubs and subshrubs, called tree-like, are less common. The height of peonies ranges from 30 to 150 cm. These plants are valued for their beautiful appearance bushes Covered with luxurious large flowers, the beauty of which is emphasized by the lush green leaves, they become a decoration for any area. Peonies, the varieties of which are classified according to several criteria, are used for group and single plantings on lawns and in mix gardens. They are also grown for cutting.
Classification of herbaceous peony flowers
This plant has very large flowers various shapes and coloring. The dissected leaves are located on long and strong stems. According to the structure of flowers they are divided into:
Non-double;
Semi-double;
Japanese;
Terry (semi-rose-shaped, rose-shaped, spherical, crown-shaped);
Anemone-like.
The color of peony buds can be of a wide variety of shades: white, pink, red, purple, ruby, yellow.
Types of herbaceous peonies
There are many types of this plant. The following peonies are used in landscape design and gardening, as well as for selection:
Vitman - with yellowish buds.
Milky-flowered - with white petals and golden stamens.
Medicinal - ruby color.
Thin-leaved - with flowers of a dark red hue.
Maryin root is purple in color.
There are the following groups of peonies (depending on the height of the bush):
Low - up to 60 cm;
Medium height - 70-80 cm;
Tall - 80-100 cm;
Very tall - 100-150 cm.
Features of cultivation
Herbaceous peonies (lat. Paeonia) can grow in one flowerbed for 20 years without replanting. Caring for such flowers is not too difficult. The herbaceous peony, the varieties of which are distinguished by great diversity, is famous for its beauty and unpretentiousness. Most modern flowers come from the milky-flowering and medicinal species of this plant. Such peonies have been cultivated all over the world for many years.
The flowering time of these plants varies. They depend on the varieties of peonies, which are divided into early, middle, mid-late, late. To extend the flowering period in flower beds, different plants are planted. Thanks to planting several varieties of peonies, you can decorate your plot for 1.5-2 months.
Description of various groups of terry herbaceous peonies
One of the most popular groups of peonies are those plants that have double flowers. Each variety differs in the shape of the buds and petals, as well as their color. Terry peonies include the following:
Crown-shaped, the flowers of which consist of 3 tiers. The first two (lower and middle) are wide and large petals. They are located in one row. The highlight of such peonies is the crown of small petals. Most often, in such flowers, all tiers differ from each other in shade. These varieties of peonies stand out with large buds (20 cm in diameter). Most of them have cream or pink shades of varying intensities. The most popular of them are “Raspberry Sande”, “Duchess de Nemours”, “Top Breaststroke”.
Globular (bomb-shaped), the buds of which have a rounded shape. As a rule, bushes of such peonies are medium-sized (up to 100 cm in height). These flowers have an intoxicating aroma. The most popular varieties of this group are rightfully considered to be early flowering pink peonies “Monsieur Julie Ely”, “Pink Cameo”, “Alexander Dumas”, “Red Charm”.
Semi-rose-shaped, in the center of the flower which is collected a large number of stamens Such peonies include the following varieties: “ballerina”, “goody”, “illinia bell”.
Pink-shaped, flower shape reminiscent of roses. Among them are the following varieties: “Henry Boxtos”, “Solange”, “Mrs. Roosevelt”.
Japanese, whose flowers are distinguished by their elegance, tenderness and lightness. Their petals are collected in 1-2 rows. The diameter of the flowers reaches 20 cm. In the center of the bud there are narrow stamens. They may have a different color from the petals. The bushes of such plants are medium-sized and compact. In some varieties, the stamens are bent inward, while in others they are collected in the shape of a pompom. Such flowers are divided into groups: white peonies (“bu ti”, “lotus queen”, “Christine”); pink (“kinsui”, “westerner”, “largo”, “neon”, “rosellette” “Velma Atkinson”); red (“Charles Burgess”, “Nippon Parada”, “Akrona”, “Barrington Bell”); dark red (“Chocolet Soulger”, “Walter Maines”, “Hot Chocolet”).
Anemone-like, distinguished by wide lower petals and short central ones, collected in the shape of a ball. Flowers reach 14-16 cm in diameter. The buds can be plain or have two shades. Anemone-shaped peonies have compact bushes of medium height. Flower growers are very fond of such varieties as “root glue”, “snow mountain”, “rhapsody”. These flowers are a transitional form from Japanese peonies to double ones.
Semi-double peonies
Semi-double peonies stand apart, varieties (their photos are extraordinarily beautiful) of which are distinguished by more compact bushes and smaller flowers. The most popular of them are the following: “Miss America”, “Citeria”, “Sable”, “Lasters”.
Tree peonies
In our country, flower growers prefer to grow herbaceous peonies, varieties of which have enjoyed deserved popularity for many years. IN last years many began to grow tree-like plants, which previously were somewhat inferior to ordinary varieties in the beauty of their flowers. They have been cultivated for many years in Asian countries. The fundamental difference Such flowers are due to the fact that herbaceous forms grow new shoots every year, and the non-dying bushes of tree-like plants gradually increase in size. Today they are distinguished by their special diversity and beauty.
Tree peonies, varieties of which are revered in China, have just begun to gain popularity in our country. To date, breeders have bred about 500 different plants of this type. How are these peonies different? Tree varieties are perennial plants with woody shoots. Every year they form an ever larger bush. Even in the conditions of the middle zone, such flowers can be successfully grown in gardens and summer cottages. To successfully winter the bushes, they should be securely covered with suitable means: wood shavings, reeds, fallen leaves, spruce branches. In such conditions, a tree peony can normally survive even a frosty winter.
Groups of tree peonies
These flowering plants are divided into 3 groups:
Chinese-European varieties with double flowers;
Hybrid peonies of Delaway and Yellow (very similar species);
Japanese semi-double and terry.
Tree peonies of the Chinese-European group are distinguished by large, heavy buds. They can have a wide variety of colors. A distinctive feature of such bushes is that the stems can droop greatly under the weight of the flowers. They often require additional support, which sometimes reduces the decorative value of the plants.
The most popular are hybrids of Delaway and Yellow peonies. This is due to the fact that such flowers have bright yellow buds, which is not typical for herbaceous peonies. One of the most popular varieties is “yellow yao”, which has elegant large flowers and compact bushes.
Japanese tree peonies of double and semi-double varieties adorn light buds. Their bushes have a compact shape.
Varieties of domestic selection: “August”, “Hoffman”, “Anastasia Sosnovets”, “Vladimir Novikov”, “Vadim Tikhomirov”, “Vorobievsky”, “Marianna”, “Stefan”, “Maria”, “Peter the Great”, “Moscow” University", "Sergei Uspensky", "Smolin".
Purchase of planting material
Planting material for tree peonies is much more expensive than for herbaceous peonies. This is due to the fact that growing it requires much more time and effort. Unregistered seedlings brought from abroad are available for sale. When purchasing such planting material grown in Asian countries with warmer climates, the gardener risks losing all the bushes after the harsh Russian winter. That is why it is better to give preference to more cold-resistant domestic tree peonies.
Popular varieties of foreign selection: “golden placer”, “green jade”, “midday heat”. These varieties amaze with their magnificently beautiful flowers, but they are not cold-resistant. Beginning flower growers should give preference to varieties of herbaceous and tree-like peonies of domestic selection, for example, such as “Hoffmann”, “Tatyana”, “Peter the Great”, “Muse”, “Vorobievsky”.
Peony angustifolia
This beautiful plant is often called: thin-leaved peony. Despite the fact that in our country many flower growers have been growing it for many years, today it is at the peak of popularity all over the world. It is strikingly different from other types of peonies not only in its leaves, but also in its flowers. Until recently this was rare herbaceous plant could be found in the wild in steppe zone. Today it is listed in the Red Book.
The thin-leaved peony blooms in the spring at the same time as the late tulips. Its buds are distinguished by their rich red color and bright yellow anthers. They look great against the backdrop of lush green foliage, cut into long thin lobes. Its flowering period is short. The bush is hemispherical in shape, dense and compact. Its height does not exceed 45 cm. There is a terry form of thin-leaved peony. Such flowers are used in rock gardens, mixborders, and gardens. This species is also used for breeding work.
The most suitable varieties of peonies for the site
Among the huge number of different varieties of herbaceous peonies, there are those that are popular all over the world. These include the following plants:
Peony "Sarah Bernhardt", "Livingston", "Princess Margaret", "Natalie", "Cornelia Shaylor", "Goody", "Neon" (with pink flowers);
. "George Nichols" (white);
. “Helen Cowley”, “Red Rose”, “Red Grace”, “Diana Parks” (red shades);
. “white cap” (with dark pink outer petals and a creamy center);
. "bartzella" (the only double yellow peony obtained by crossing herbaceous and tree varieties).
Fragrant varieties of peonies
These flowers are valued not only for their decorative value, but also for their amazing aroma. Varieties of good-smelling peonies are divided into very fragrant and pleasantly fragrant.
Varieties with an amazing smell include the following peonies: “Corine Versan”, “Cora Stubs”, “Emily Olson”, “Edens Parfum”, “Mikado”, “Neon”, “Vogue”, “Filomena”, “Postilion”.
The following flowers smell pleasant: “Casablanca”, “Karina”, “America”, “Coral Sunset”, “Pink Party Faith”, “Peace”, “Nancy Nora”, “Sarah Bernhardt”, “Mr. Ed”, “Tom Eckhardt” , "moon river".
ITO hybrids
Today, the so-called ITO hybrids of peonies are in greatest demand. This group of flowers was named after the Japanese scientist who was the first to obtain seedlings from crossing herbaceous milky-flowering and yellow tree peonies. One of the best varieties of this group is “sunset coral” with beautiful coral flowers.
You can find the latest varieties of chameleon peonies on sale. Their distinctive feature is that they change the shade of the flower depending on the stage of its blooming. The best of them include the following varieties of ITO hybrids:
. “lollipop” (yellow with red-purple splashes);
. “Hilary” (dark pink, later becoming creamy);
. "Julia Rose" (cherry pink that turns to orange-peach);
. "Copper Kate" (red-yellow-orange).
Price issue
The cost of planting material for peonies depends on which group they belong to (herbaceous, tree-like), as well as on the shape, size and color of the flowers. The price also varies depending on the prevalence of the variety. The newest ones will be the most expensive.
Tree peonies can be purchased at the following prices (in rubles):
Dark purple: “black tiger”, “black crown” - 1200;
Purple-red: “imperial crown” - 900;
Blue: “song of rain” - 800;
Pink: “pink lu” - 800;
Greens: “green jasper”, “green beans” - 800-1200;
Yellow: “celestial gold”, “kinko”, “gold placer” - 1600.
Herbaceous peonies are sold at the following prices (in rubles):
Yellow: “golden chariot” - 1600;
Multicolor: “spring palette”, “charm of sunrise” - 250;
Black: “sacred mountain”, “black pearl” - 200;
Reds: “camellia”, “morning frost”, “Chinese silk” - 200;
Coral: “sunset coral” - 470;
Red-cherry: “Baki Belle” - 480;
White peonies: “snow lotus”, “iceberg”, “singing spring”, “white crane”, “golden halo”, “icy breeze” - 200;
Purple: “purple extravaganza”, “velvet of the night” - 200;
Blue: “pink azure”, “heavenly brocade” - 200;
Pink: “pink watercolor”, “sherbet”, “pink cloud”, “pearl necklace”, “rose garden”, peony “Sarah Bernhardt” - 200.
ITO peonies are sold at the following price (in rubles):
Purple: “ocean purple” - 800;
Pink: “temple gate”, “pink qipao” - 800.
Peonies are famous for their beauty and pleasant aroma. In China they are considered the flowers of emperors. In Japan they are a symbol of prosperity and well-being. But peonies are of great interest not only in these countries. The plant is also popular among domestic gardeners. Every gardener strives to plant the best peonies on his plot, so problems often arise with choosing a variety. The article will tell you what varieties of such a miracle flower exist, and which one to give preference to.
In total, there are 34 species in the genus Peony. On this moment more than 5000 varieties are registered. Moreover, the majority are herbaceous varieties - about 4500, and only 500 types are tree-like. The buds begin to bloom in early June and are pleasing to the eye for a whole month. Varieties of peonies differ in size, shape and color of the flower, flowering period, and height of the bush. Therefore, in order to choose the most suitable option, the gardener must be able to understand the varieties of this plant.
Classification of peonies by shape
Before describing the varieties of peonies that are most popular among gardeners, it makes sense to consider the classification of this crop. Everyone experienced flower growers It is known that the color of a peony bud varies from pure white to dark red. The shape also varies.
According to their shape, all inflorescences are divided into the following types:
Peonies, the types of which differ in bud color and shape, are able to amaze even the most experienced gardeners with their diversity. They are one of the most beloved plants that are used for landscaping garden plots and summer cottages. In the world today there are up to 5,000 different varieties. At the same time, every year breeders develop more and more new ones.
Peony: plant description
This is a herbaceous perennial plant of the peony family. Tree-like subshrubs and shrubs can be found a little less frequently. Plant height is 30-150 cm. All types of peonies are valued for their beautiful appearance. The bushes are covered with large and luxurious flowers, the beauty of which is successfully emphasized by lush green leaves. Peonies can decorate absolutely any area. All varieties of peonies are used for single and group planting in mixborders and on lawns. In addition, they are grown for cutting.
Herbaceous peonies
These are perennial plants with powerful bushes with many erect simple stems. Height - 60-120 cm.
Herbaceous types of peonies differ in the type of flowers, the height and shape of the bush, the time of flowering, the presence or absence of aroma, the color and shape of the leaves, and the stability of the peduncles.
The aroma of peonies is quite diverse. Many varieties resemble the scent of roses, lily of the valley, lemon, lilac, linden, honey or jasmine. Milky-flowered peonies have a pleasant aroma, from which many hybrid peonies inherited it. There are also varieties with a sharp, unpleasant odor (for example, plants with coral flowers). Medicinal varieties have no odor.
Early peonies bloom from early to mid-June, middle ones - in the second half of June. Late peonies bloom from June 28 to July 10.
Depending on the structure of the flowers, the herbaceous peony is divided into five groups:
The color of the buds can be of various shades: red, white, pink, yellow, purple, ruby, etc.
Types of herbaceous peonies
The following types of peonies are of greatest importance for floriculture, striking in their variety of colors and shapes:
- Peony Thin-leaved. Its homeland is Asia Minor, Central Europe and the Balkans. Plants have a height of 20-60 cm. The bush has a very beautiful shape, slightly spreading. The leaves are strongly dissected and lacy. The flowers are simple, not very large (10 cm in diameter), crimson in color. In the middle are yellow anthers. The aroma is very delicate. Flowering period is April-May.
- Medicinal herbaceous peony, whose homeland is Southern Europe. The height of the bush reaches 70-80 cm. The plant has dissected leaves growing from the ground itself. The flowers are dark red, ruby in color, odorless, diameter 9-13 cm. Blooms in summer, in early June.
- Wittmann's peony. Homeland - Abkhazia, Western Transcaucasia. A bush up to 80 cm high with double- or triple-triple leaves, densely pubescent below. The flowers are solitary, yellow-white or yellow, 8-10 cm in diameter. The stamens are yellow. Peony blooms in May.
- Mlokosevich's peony. Homeland - Eastern Transcaucasia. Height up to 100 cm. The leaves of the plant are twice trifoliate. The flowers are pale yellow or yellow, wide open, 10-12 cm in diameter. Flowering occurs in May.
- Peony Milky-flowered. Homeland: Mongolia, Siberia, China. Height 60-120 cm, stems bare below, no leaves. Above the leaves there are two or more flowers with a diameter of 8-10 cm, with white petals and golden stamens. The milky peony blooms from mid-June.
Depending on the height of the bush there are:
Low-growing peonies - up to 60 cm;
Medium height - 65-80 cm;
Tall - 80-150 cm.
The most common varieties of herbaceous peonies:
- A la Mode - White flower(diameter up to 21 cm), in the center of which is a pompom made of bright yellow stamens. Flowering is abundant. Peony bush is erect, height 80 cm. Early variety. There are up to 7 buds on the stem.
- Nancy- a peach-pink flower (up to 17 cm in diameter), very beautiful. The bush is erect, quite compact, densely leafy, up to 80 cm high. An early variety.
- Aritina Nozen Glory- lilac-pink flower (diameter up to 20 cm). The bush is quite beautiful, height up to 70 cm, leaves and stems are light green. Very early variety.
- America- a flower up to 21 cm in diameter, dark red, with bright yellow stamens collected in the form of a pompom. The bush has a rather beautiful shape, compact, its height is up to 75 cm. Each stem can contain up to 4 buds. The variety is an early one.
Growing
Herbaceous varieties can grow in one flowerbed without replanting for up to 20 years. Caring for peonies is not too difficult, as they are famous for their unpretentiousness. They have been cultivated for many years all over the world. Flowering time varies depending on the variety. To extend the flowering period, several are planted in flower beds at once. different plants, thanks to which you can decorate the area for 1.5-2 months.
Terry herbaceous peonies
This is one of the most common and popular groups of peonies, which include:
- Crown peonies, the flower of which has 3 tiers. The middle and lower ones consist of wide and large petals arranged in one row. The highlight of such peonies is the crown of small petals, which are collected in a ring. As a rule, all tiers of such flowers differ in their shade. A distinctive feature of the variety is its large buds (20 cm in diameter). The main part of them has a cream or pink tint of varying intensity. Such peonies, the names of the varieties of which sound very aristocratic (Raspberry Sande, Top Brass, Duchess De Nemours), are considered the most popular.
- Globular. Peony buds are round in shape. The bushes are most often medium-sized (up to 100 cm in height). The aroma of flowers is pleasant. The most popular varieties of this group are Monsieur Julie Eli, Red Charm, Pink Cameo.
- Half pink peonies. There are many stamens collected in the center of the flower. The most popular varieties: Ballerina, Goody, Illini Bell.
- Rosaceae. The flowers are shaped like roses. The following varieties are popular: Henry Boxtos, Mrs. Roosevelt, Solange.
- Japanese peonies, whose flowers (20 cm in diameter) are distinguished by tenderness, elegance and lightness. Their petals are collected in 1-2 rows. In the center of the buds there are narrow stamens, the color of which may differ from the tone of the petals. The bushes are medium-sized and quite compact. White flowers - Boo Ti, Christine, Lotus Queen. Pink peonies - Kinsui, Largo, Westerner, Neon, Velma Atkinson, Rosellet; red flowers - in the varieties Charles Burgess, Barrington Bell, Nippon Parada, Akron, dark red - in Hot Chocolet, Chocolet Soulger, Walter Maines. Japanese peonies are considered the most fashionable today.
- Anemone peonies They are distinguished by the presence of wide lower petals and short central ones, collected in the shape of a ball. The size of the flowers is 14-16 cm in diameter. The buds are one-color or two shades. Anemone-like species of peonies have compact, medium-height bushes. Flower growers are very fond of varieties such as Snow Mountain, Ruth Glue, and Rhapsody. The flowers belong to the transitional form from Japanese to double peonies.
Semi-double peonies
These varieties are distinguished by smaller flowers and rather compact bushes. The most popular peonies are Miss America, Sable, Cytheria, Lasters.
The flowers have several rows of petals (from 3 to 7) and many stamens. They can be located either in the center of the flower, in its middle part, or interspersed with the petals. The flowers are usually large but light, with rounded petals. Currently, semi-double varieties have become very popular.
Tree peonies
Flower growers in our country prefer to grow herbaceous varieties. But recently, tree peonies, which have been cultivated for many years in Asian countries, have also begun to gain popularity. Flowers are distinguished by great variety and beauty. Today, breeders have bred more than 500 various types such plants.
Tree peonies are perennial plants with woody shoots. Every year the bush grows more and more. For successful wintering of plants, they must be securely covered with suitable materials, such as wood shavings, reeds, fallen leaves, spruce branches. Tree peonies in such conditions can survive even a very frosty winter.
Variety of tree peonies
Plants are divided into 3 main groups:
- Sino-European peonies with double flowers. This group is distinguished by its large and heavy buds of a wide variety of colors. Due to the heaviness of the flowers, the stems can droop, so the bush often requires additional support, which reduces the decorative qualities of the plants.
- Hybrid peonies Yellow and Delaway, thanks to their bright yellow buds, are the most popular.
- Japanese tree-like double and semi-double varieties light buds decorate. Bushes of compact plants. Popular varieties of domestic selection: Smolin, August, Moscow University, Hoffman, Maria, Anastasia Sosnovets, Marianna, Vadim Tikhomirov, Stefan, Peter the Great, Vorobyovsky, Sergei Uspensky.
Purchasing peonies for planting
Planting material for tree-like varieties of peonies is more expensive than for herbaceous varieties. This is due, first of all, to the fact that growing it requires much more effort and time. On sale you can find unregistered peony seedlings that were brought from abroad. When purchasing them, flower growers risk losing all their bushes after harsh winters. That is why it is recommended to give preference to domestic, more cold-resistant varieties. The most popular peony seedlings of foreign selection are: Green Jade, Gold Placer, Midday Heat, which amaze with the beauty and splendor of their flowers, but they are not cold-resistant. It is better for beginning gardeners to give preference to herbaceous and tree-like peonies of domestic selection, such as, for example, Hoffmann, Peter the Great, Tatyana, Vorobyovsky, Muse.
The best varieties for a personal plot
Among the many different varieties of peonies, there are those that are popular all over the world, for example:
- pink peonies - Princess Margaret, Livingston, Natalie, Goody, Cornelia Shaylor, Neon;
- white peonies - George Nichols;
- flowers in red shades - Helen Cowley, Red Rose, Red Grace, Diana Parks;
- peonies with dark pink outer petals and a creamy center - White Cap;
- double yellow peony - Bartzella.
Fragrant varieties
Such flowers attract not only their decorative qualities, but also their amazing aroma. These include: Corinne Versant, Moon River, Casablanca, Cora Stubs, Karina, Emily Olson, Edens perfume, Mikado, Neon, Nancy Nora, Vogue, Postilion, Philomena, Pink Parfate, America, Sarah Bernhardt, Coral Sunset, World, Mister Ed, Tom Eckhardt.
ITO hybrids
The greatest demand today is for ITO hybrids of peonies. This one is named after the Japanese scientist who was the first to produce seedlings by crossing milky-flowering herbaceous peonies and yellow tree peonies. The Coral Sunset variety, which has beautiful coral flowers, is considered the best among this group. There are new varieties of chameleon peonies on sale, which are distinguished by the ability to change the shade of flowers depending on its stage of blooming. The best varieties:
- after a while orange-peach - Julia Rose;
- yellow peony with red-violet splashes - Lollipop;
- red-yellow-orange peony - Coper Keith;
- dark pink peony, later becoming creamy - Hilary.
Planting peonies
Plants grow in one place for many years, so they must be provided with everything they need. Planting is done in a sunny or slightly shaded place. The planting hole is dug 70x70 cm in size. A layer of soil with compost or manure is placed at the bottom.
You can also add superphosphate (100 g), potassium salt or potassium magnesia (50-100 g), and add lime (100-200 g) to acidic soil. For good and healthy growth, copper sulfate (1-2 tablespoons) is added.
A favorable time for planting or replanting plants is the period from late August to early September. It is also permissible to replant herbaceous and tree-like peonies in the spring before the buds awaken.
The secret of planting is not to bury the buds too deep: this may cause the plant to stop blooming. The buds should be located 3-5 cm from the soil surface.
Care
Caring for peonies is quite simple. It consists of regular loosening and weeding. In May, peony (the description of varieties is given above) is fed. Cutting is not difficult, but you need to remember that for good flowering next year, half of the green leaves should remain on the bush.
The most time-consuming work is replanting well-rooted peony bushes, as well as dividing them. This activity will require brute male strength. The soil around the plants is carefully loosened with a pitchfork. With a sharp shovel, the far-reaching roots are cut off, and the peony bush is dug in widely.
Reproduction
Tree varieties of peonies are propagated by grafting, cuttings or seeds, but all these methods can give disappointing results for novice gardeners. It is better to stick to the traditional division of bushes.
Diseases
On acidic and damp soils, peonies are often subject to diseases such as gray rot, fusarium, and wilt (sudden wilting of stems). Rust or powdery mildew may appear on the leaves.
Planting material price
The cost of peonies depends primarily on which group they belong to (herbaceous or tree-like). In addition, the price is affected by the shape, size and color of the flowers. The cost may vary depending on the prevalence of the plant. The newest varieties are usually the most expensive.
Tree peony is a beautiful hybrid shrub with big flowers and oblong dissected leaves. This type refers to long-lived plants (their lifespan can reach 100 years). The shrub is frost-resistant and hardy, but at the same time capricious.
The tree peony blooms in May-June. The flowers are large, about 20 cm in diameter and, depending on the variety, can be red, purple, white, crimson and pink.
Main varieties of tree peony
There are many varieties of tree peony, here are some of them:
- Red giant
- White jade
- Natural yellow
- Yin and yang
- Peach under the snow
- Black Panther
- Sapphire
- Malachite Box
- Scarlet Sails
- Gentle voice
- Twins
- rainbow light
- Pink River
- Smell of lily
- White crystal
- Red lotus
- Kiao sisters
- Intoxicating wine
- Emperor's Gold
- Shimanishiki
- Kinshi
- Pink lotus
- Pink lu
- Coral Altar
- Coral Tower
- Silk Road
- Purple Night
- Garnet bracelet
- Torch
- Red dress
- Blue Doe
- wine bowl
- Rainbow drops
- Two sisters
- Transparent dew
- Golden casket
- White wanderer
- Imperial crown
- Indigo Chief
- Queen's whim
- dragon wings
- Variegated butterfly
- Pink powder
- Ruby necklace
- White Phoenix
- Green Jasper
- Shining bouquet
It is better to purchase tree peony from specialized nurseries or from trusted suppliers. As a rule, the cost of tree peony cuttings starts from 300 rubles.
For cultivation in the Moscow region and Siberia you should choose frost-resistant varieties, which bloom at the end of May - beginning of June. Here are a few varieties that received best reviews gardeners:
- Pink Lotus
- White Phoenix
- Black dragon
- Red Fortress
- Pink Bouquet
These varieties are Chinese winter-hardy.
For landing in central Russia, with more warm winter, you can choose Japanese varieties:
- Hakujishi
- Rinpo
- Asahi-minato
Planting tree peony
It is recommended to plant the shrub during from the second ten days of August until the end of September. When choosing a place for planting, it is necessary to take into account that it is better that it is located away from large spreading plants, tall buildings and is protected from the wind.
The ideal soil for growing peonies is alkaline, so add to the soil before planting. 200 gr. wood ash.
To plant shrubs, a cone-shaped hole measuring 1 m3 is dug in the area. To the bottom of the pit drainage is poured(broken brick, gravel), which ensures the drainage of melt water and does not allow the roots of the bush to rot. The drainage layer should be about 20 cm.
Then you need to pour a layer of natural soil, 250 g of lime and 150 g of superphosphate. After preparing the hole, the peony bush is planted.
Important, so that the root collar of the peony (the junction of the root and the stems) is located at soil level.
When planting several shrubs, the distance between them should be at least two meters.
Agrotechnical care for tree peony includes such concepts as watering, feeding And pruning.
- Watering it should be moderate. As a rule, for a medium-sized bush it is enough 6-7 liters of water. Watering is carried out 2-3 times a week. However, the frequency of watering varies depending on the weather. In dry weather, plants are watered up to 5 times a week, but do not forget that the bush does not like dampness. Once a week, before watering, remove all weeds and loosen the soil.
- Distinguish 3 stages of feeding tree peony.
- During the growing season Nitrogenous fertilizers should be used.
- During the period of bud formation Potash and phosphorus fertilizers are used.
- During the flowering period Shrubs also use potassium, phosphorus and nitrogen fertilizers.
When feeding a peony, it is important to follow the instructions included with the fertilizer, especially when feeding the plant nitrogen. An overdose of this chemical element can cause root burns in peonies.
After planting the peony, foliar feeding is done for two years. To do this, the bush is sprayed with urea (40 grams of fertilizer per 10 liters of water).
- Tree peony pruning- the key to the correct formation of the bush. It is recommended to carry out anti-aging pruning at the beginning of spring: using pruning shears, the shoots are shortened to the first living bud. Weak shoots must be pruned. Trimming height - 10 cm.
- Transfer. The bush experiences this process very painfully. Sometimes, after changing its location, a peony may get sick and not bloom. During transplantation, the root system is carefully removed from the planting site. Then the roots are washed with water and examined. Diseased roots should be removed and the cut areas treated 1% solution of potassium permanganate and sprinkle with coal.
There are 3 methods of propagation of this shrub:
- from seeds;
- cuttings;
- dividing the bush.
Peony propagation from seeds is a complex process. As a rule, only breeders can propagate shrubs in this way. Reproduction by seeds occurs within 2 years. Seeds are collected in the fall. Then the seeds are planted in open ground.
During the first winter after planting, the root system is formed. Then, after a year, stems and roots appear. At proper care, watering and fertilizing, the peony will appear in the 2nd year after planting the seeds, and will bloom in the 4th year.
Propagation by cuttings is more effective. Semi-lignified cuttings are cut in the second half of July. The cut cuttings are placed to a depth of 1.5 cm in a container with a mixture of peat and sand, watered and sprayed with a ready-made mineral complex for shrubs once a week.
Peonies should be grown in a greenhouse or any other warm place. In the spring, if the cutting has begun to grow, it is planted in open ground.
Reproduction by dividing the bush is carried out in the fall. Regardless of the type of peony, it is recommended to use peonies that are 5-6 years old. The roots are separated at the root collar. After separation, each root is placed in a clay mash (a mixture of water and clay in a ratio of 2 to 1) for 30 minutes.
Preparing for winter
In order for the bush bloomed every year, it is important to properly prepare it for winter.
To do this, in early October, the stems and shoots of the plant are tied with rope and “covered” with burlap or straw.
Important! The shoots are very fragile, so you cannot bend them to the ground in preparation for winter.
tree peony- a disease and pest resistant shrub. But, with improper care, there is a risk of contracting diseases such as:
- gray mold- a fungal disease that is very dangerous because may move to other bushes. When a peony is infected with this fungus, the stems and leaves turn brown and then dry out. Used for treatment copper sulfate solution(Dilute 10 grams of copper sulfate in 3 liters of water). The resulting solution is sprayed 1 bush;
- brown spot- a fungal disease that appears on peony leaves and appears as oblong spots Brown. When the first signs of the disease appear, diseased leaves are torn from the bush and burned, and the peony itself is treated Bordeaux mixture solution(one percent). Spraying the plant with the solution is carried out every 10 days until the spots completely disappear.
You can learn about the features of planting a tree peony and the differences from ordinary peonies in this video:
