Tree Peony (Paeonia suffruticosa)

Sun Needs:

• Full sun to part shade (Best bloom in full sun; light afternoon shade helps preserve flower color and longevity)

Bloom Time:

• Mid to late spring (typically April to May, earlier than herbaceous peonies)

Size:

Height: 3 to 5 feet tall (some cultivars may reach up to 7 feet over many years)
Width: 3 to 5 feet wide

Attributes:

• Massive, silky blooms in a wide range of colors
• Woody stems that do not die back in winter
• Long-lived (can live 50+ years with proper care)
• Show-stopping spring blooms that can last 1–2 weeks
• Attractive foliage that remains ornamental through fall
• Deer and rabbit resistant
• Hardy in Zones 4–8, though protection may be needed in exposed northern sites
• Requires well-drained soil and dislikes transplanting once established

Companion:

• Bleeding Heart (Dicentra) – shares a spring bloom time and soft form
• Hosta – complements the shrub form with bold foliage
• Ferns – offer textural contrast and thrive in part shade
• Columbine (Aquilegia) – another spring-bloomer with delicate structure
• Brunnera – heart-shaped leaves add interest beneath peonies
• Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa) – graceful and shade-tolerant
• Allium – adds upright form and post-peony bloom interest
• Epimedium – great low-growing option for part shade
• Astilbe – follows tree peonies in bloom and prefers similar light conditions
• Lungwort (Pulmonaria) – early bloom, spotted foliage for added contrast