Numerous stories exist that explain how the peony earned its name. The name is said to have its roots in the Greek word paeon.
In Greek mythology, Paeon was the gods’ healer who infuriated his mentor Asclepius after giving Pluto a cure by drawing milky liquid from a peony’s root. The god of medicine and healing was Asclepius. He expressed jealousy that Paeon was outwitting his teacher and vowed to kill Paeon. Zeus delivered him by transforming him into the lovely peony blossom.
Another legend attributes the name Peony to Paeonia, an attractive nymph who caught Apollo’s eye. Aphrodite changed her into a peony out of spite. It is most likely because of this tradition that the flower came to symbolize bad luck in Victorian times.
Peonies are thought to have originated in Chinese gardens around 1000 BC, and by the seventh century, they had spread to Japan, which is one of the world’s top peony producers. Peonies were mostly employed in the East for therapeutic purposes. It was common practice to treat headaches, asthma, and labor pain with the roots and seeds of the peony.
Explorers initially introduced tree peony to Europe in the early 1800s after they were found. They are exceedingly well-liked now as cut flowers and beautiful garden plants.
Chinese or Japanese peonies?
Chinese tree peonies are a specialty of ours at Cricket Hill Garden. Because overall we think Chinese tree peonies are more varied in form, color, and fragrance than their Japanese cousins, we prefer them. The open flower patterns, upright growth habit, and vivid colors that distinguish Japanese tree peony, however, are something that every gardener with an interest in tree peonies cannot not but enjoy.
No native tree peony species exist in Japan. According to historians, the tree peonies, or botan in Japanese, first appeared in Japan in the eighth century CE. It is generally agreed by historians that Buddhist monks—whether Chinese or Japanese—were in charge of delivering tree peonies to Japan. In this setting, tree peonies were viewed as significant medicinal plants rather than beautiful garden plants. The massive transfer of goods and concepts from China to Japan included tree peonies.
Some sources attribute the first introduction of tree peony to Japan to the great Buddhist scholar and monk Kb-Daishi.
Tree peony were cultivated as attractive plants in temple and court gardens throughout the following few hundred years, but it wasn’t until the Edo era (1603 to 1868) that their cultivation spread widely. The introduction of grafting as the primary method of multiplication during this time is primarily to blame for the rapid expansion of tree peony farming. The cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as the western coastal prefectures of Niigata and Shimane, became the primary centers of cultivation and dissemination.
Hyakken’s peonies
Utagawa Shigenobu’s 1866 woodblock print shows tree peonies in a well-known public garden in Tokyo.
Similar to China, tree peonies have deep cultural value in Japan. Tree peonies are a symbol of good fortune and a righteous and noble attitude in Japanese poetry and visual art.
Japanese tree peonies first appeared in western European botanical gardens in the middle of the 19th century. By the 1890s, a number of sizable nurseries with headquarters in Japan were shipping a significant amount of tree peony to both Europe and the US.
The Yokohama Nursery was renowned for its extensive collection of lilies, irises, and tree peonies. From the early 1900s to the eve of World War 2, this nursery sent goods to the United States.
A detail from a 1920s Yokohama Nursery catalog with gorgeous printing. The varieties displayed are, in order, “Peak of Mt. Fuji, also known as Fuji-no-mime, and Kasane Lion, also known as Kasane-jishi.
A side note: For those who think tree peonies are pricey, take into account that a rare book trader will charge you $5,500 for a vintage Yokohama nursery brochure. By comparison, the real Japanese tree peony on our website, which start at $89, are inexpensive!
There has been a lot of misunderstanding about the proper identification of Japanese tree peony among nursery experts and collectors since they were first brought to the United States more than a century ago. Grower John C. Wister expressed his anger in his 1962 book, The Peonies:
“Our difficulties [in correctly classifying Japanese tree peony cultivars] have been caused by some Japanese nurseryman’s negligence or dishonesty. From 1910 to 1925, the main exporters would provide a collection of fifty types under fifty different labels, and all but two or three plants would turn out to be identical. The very same company would provide fifty plants of a unique white kind, and the blooms would open in shades of pink, crimson, and purple.
Since then, unfortunately, little has changed; imported Japanese tree peony continue to frequently have incorrect labels. Whether they lived up to their reputation or not, Japanese tree peonies played a significant role in the hybridization of tree peonies by breeders like Prof. Arthur Saunders and Nassos Daphnis. To develop the stunning yellow and apricot tree peonies like High Noon and Marchioness, these brilliant hybridizers mixed Japanese tree peonies with the species tree peony P. lutea.
Some Japanese tree peony varieties created in the 19th century are still available today. The problem of mislabeling has been less serious as more Japanese tree peony are propagated in the US. We at Cricket Hill Garden promise that every Japanese tree peony we sell is authentic. Here are some of our favorite cultivars of Japanese tree peonies.
called “Black Dragon Brocade” A very dark and highly valued cultivar is kokuryu nisjiki.
The “Seven Gods of Fortune” One of our most colorful dark pink Japanese tree peonies is Shin Shichifukujin.
Perhaps the brightest red tree peony in our entire collection is ‘The Sun’ Taiyo.
Japanese tree peonies frequently exhibit a number of morphological characteristics in both their flower form and their growth habits. This homogeneity is likely a product of both the Japanese tree peonies’ relatively small genetic ancestry and the producers’ aesthetic choices. Japanese tree peonies commonly have huge blooms, 8–12 in diameter, upward-facing, open semi-double flower shapes, and intensely vivid colors, yet they are frequently less fragrant than Chinese tree peonies. When mature, most shrubs are 4 tall and wide. Compared to its Chinese counterparts, Japanese tree peonies are more erect and less bushy. Many of the highly divided leaves have a bluish green hue.
This plant serves as a good example of how Japanese tree peony tend to grow straight rather than bushy.
The majority of Japanese tree peony are semi-double, however there are some significant outliers to this rule. A few types are considered fine doubles, while a large group of semi-double blossoms are referred to as jishi or lion shape. There blooms are believed to resemble a lion’s mane, which is disheveled and tangled.
Queen of Flowers
Rare Japanese tree peony called Kao blooms completely twice.
Another double form Japanese tree peony is Fusotsukasa, which means “Monitor of the Palace at Sunrise.”
Black Jade Lion
A variety called Hakuojishi is reported to blossom in the shape of a lion’s main.
According to our observations, the bulk of Japanese tree peonies bloom in the middle of the season, following our Chinese tree peonies but blooming before the lutea hybrids. Around June 1st, the Japanese tree peonies at Cricket Hill Garden often reach their peak bloom.
The Kan Botan, often known as “Winter Blooming” tree peonies, are an intriguing subgroup of Japanese tree peonies. Depending on the variety, this type of tree peony blooms in the spring and then reblooms from November to January. The plant only produces a few leaves and much tiny flowers in the winter. It is thought that these unusual varieties date back to the 1700s.
In Japan, straw mats are used to preserve tree peonies that bloom in the winter. At this picture, a tree peony in a park in Tokyo is flowering in December.
It appears that Winter Blooming Tree Peonies were created to thrive in particular temperatures in Japan. We are unaware of any American growers who have been successful in cultivating Kan Botan.
Toichi Itoh, a Japanese plant hybridizer, was the first to successfully cross a tree peony with a herbaceous peony in the 20th century, giving rise to a third kind of peony known as an intersectional peony.
One last thing about herbaceous peonies. Additionally, only few herbaceous peonies are indigenous to Japan.
Herbaceous peonies are not valued as highly as tree peonies in Japan as they are in China.
Because the first herbaceous peonies to flower in the anemone form were initially imported from Japan, anemone form herbaceous peonies are frequently referred to as “Japanese” form in America.
The cultural significance of tree peony in Japan and how they are portrayed in Japanese visual art will be covered in a future blog post.
What makes peonies so unique?
A traditional garden flower is the peony. Growing contentedly for decades with little effort needed. Discover some interesting trivia about these lovely, aromatic, traditional flowers as well as what’s new in the peony world!
Fun Facts About Peonies:
- A peony stands for honor and fortune. Additionally, they represent romance and love and are thought to portend good fortune and a long and happy marriage.
- They are the flower for the 12th wedding anniversary.
- You will cherish a peony for a very long time. Peony plants have a 100-year lifespan and can still bloom.
- In Toronto, peonies bloom from late May to early June.
- Asia, Southern Europe, and Western North America are the native home of the peony.
- The Greek deity of health and healing Asclepius’ pupil Paeon (sometimes written Paean), is honored by having the peony bear his name. Zeus transformed Paeon into the peony flower to protect him from Asclepius’ wrath after the teacher developed jealousy for his student.
- One of the earliest treatments in traditional Chinese medicine is the white peony. Chinese medicine uses the peonyroot to cure ailments including convulsions.
- Sho yu, which translates to “most beautiful,” is the name given to the peony in Chinese. It is understandable why so many people have been enamored to peony for ages, if not millennia, according to tales.
The Itoh Peony was discussed in further detail by Frankie on Breakfast Television on May 26.
Itoh Peony collection
The Itoh Peonies, also known as intersectional hybrids, are a favorite among people who appreciate the vivid and exotic flowers of tree peonies yet favor the perennial growth cycle of herbaceous peonies. With their huge, double flowers, disease-resistant lacy, dark green leaves, and robust, domed growth habit, they frequently resemble tree peonies. Gardeners can enjoy the attractive bush for the rest of the growing season after the flowering cycle. Due to their capacity to develop main and secondary buds, Itoh Peonies enjoy an extended blooming period once established, with as many as 50 blooms in a single season. They work well in bouquets with cut flowers. They will develop as they become older, reaching a height and width of three feet.
These valued beauties are in high demand and are known by the name Toichi Itoh in honor of the first person to successfully cross a tree peony with a herbaceous peony in the 1940s. Itohs were historically difficult to grow, making them rare and fairly expensive. But everything has changed. Now available in Monrovia are these gorgeous peonies!
What stands for the peony flower?
One of the most adored perennial flowers in the world is the peony. The beautiful peony, with its delicate petals and luxurious texture, is a flower that few others can match. They provide brightness and uplift to any garden or bouquet and have a great fragrance. In addition to being quite attractive, they are also rather low maintenance and have the ability to last for a very long time with little work.
The peony is full of meaning in addition to appearing gorgeous and enduring the test of time. The peony is historically offered on important occasions as a token of goodwill, best wishes, and joy. It is typically indicative of love, honor, happiness, wealth, romance, and beauty.
But did you know that the many hues of peony stand for various emotions? Keep in mind that these particular meanings are connected to individual colors if you want to offer peonies for any occasion. When selecting the ideal configuration for the situation, these details will point you in the proper path.
The white peony inspires a reserved kind of appeal since it is timeless, delicately elegant, and unquestionably classy. For this reason, we designed The Pearl, a monochromatic white peony bouquet. It is a stunning blossom that commands attention at first sight for its romantic appeal and fills any space with an air of breezy, beachy nonchalance. The white peony is unparalleled in its modest regality and is a symbol of enduring beauty. They naturally blend in wonderfully with bridal bouquets, are fantastic complements to summertime windowsill arrangements, and give contrasting flowers a lovely contrast.
It’s interesting to note that the white peony is also associated with regret and timidity. Giving white peonies is one method to express regret for wrongdoing you may have done, ask for forgiveness, and demonstrate your sincere understanding of your error. This is a heartfelt apology that is well-considered, truly meaningful, and sincere.
Light pink is one of the most popular hues for peonies. Blush tones are often considered romantic, lucky, and prosperous. They are delicate and soft. Light pink peonies are a charming alternative to roses for Valentine’s Day or an anniversary celebration, but they are not only for lovers. The radiant, delicate pink peony is another excellent flower to include in a Mother’s Day bouquet, whether used alone or in combination with other blooms to create a heartfelt, richly textured bouquet. The Peony, one of our bouquets, is a traditional and timeless design that works for any event.
Wedding bouquets frequently contain pale pink peonies. They are ideal for maids of honor and bridesmaids since they give a subtle flash of color to the ensemble. The soft pastel colour harmonizes with the colors frequently utilized in spring and summer wedding celebrations. Additionally, they are great accents to wedding centerpieces used outside. They don’t have a dramatic or gloomy tone, but they do inspire a sense of ethereal, understated beauty that is ideal for a rustic, ethereal, or outdoor-themed event.
Hot pink peonies, on the other hand, are noticeably bolder, more striking, and more sincere in their intentions. A hot pink garment can instantly evoke drama and passion because to its more intense hue. This shade of peonies is frequently linked to enticement, charm, and intense adoration. Despite being a sign of romance, due to its upbeat tint, it may also be used to represent enthusiasm, excitement, and shine.
The hot pink peony is a stunning option for so many occasions because of its inherent adaptability. These flowers are shown in their brightest state in our arrangement, The Sunburst. It acts as the centerpiece of the setting and draws the eye inward, making it a bold and eye-catching addition to a wedding centerpiece. It’s also a considerate substitute for a pink rose, particularly if you’re attempting to express your love and gratitude for someone and the significant part they play in your life. The hot pink peony is a lovely accent to a young graduate’s congratulations bouquet or a sweet sixteen party arrangement because it has a youthful vitality.
Red is the color of intensity, drama, passion, and rage. If you want to show your truest love for someone, such as your spouse or lover, there is simply no other hue that comes close to matching those qualities. When it comes to Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just because, the red peony is a wonderful replacement for the traditional red rose. If you want to surprise your special someone with a romantic supper, place it in the middle of the table. If you want to prepare for a memorable night, scatter a few peony petals around the bedroom. Due to the rich and intriguing color’s deep symbolism, there are many options.
Red peonies, though, aren’t just for lovers. Additionally, this color stands for reverence, honor, bounty, and richness. In that sense, it has a great deal of significance. In truth, Chinese royalty liked the common peony, and they frequently used it to decorate their gardens and balconies with color and personality. Red is a color that is associated with monarchy in China, hence it was this shade that was most frequently seen in regal settings.
What is more energizing and cheery than a yellow flower? Few flowers can match the exquisite yellow peony’s brightness. It represents fresh begins, new beginnings, and blank slates. Yellow peonies can be given as a housewarming present, to wish someone success as they start a new job, to acknowledge their contributions at a retirement party, or simply because they bring you so much delight.
The variety of colors of yellow that are available makes the yellow peony beautiful. To welcome a new season or to brighten up the house after a thorough spring cleaning, you might choose a lighter, sunnier type. For an outdoor wedding, you might choose for a brighter, more golden tone to capture the essence of the season. To congratulate someone well and show how proud you are of their accomplishments, you can choose a refreshing lemon. Almost no occasion is inappropriate for receiving a yellow peony.
The peony has been grown for millennia and is a source of rich symbolism and meaning. The common flower is incredibly popular in today’s society because of its decorative appeal as well as its historical associations with royalty. Because it comes in so many hues, you can be sure that there is a suitable peony for any occasion in your life. It is deserving of any memorable moment, no matter how big or tiny.
We don’t currently have any peonies in stock, but on November 8 we’ll have new peony bouquets available!