Old World Sophistication
PRIMEVERE PEONY
The traditional floral symbol of China, the state flower of Indiana, and the 12th wedding anniversary flower, peonies are known as the flower of riches and honor. With their lavish, full, rounded bloom, peonies symbolize romance and prosperity and are regarded as a symbol of good fortune and even a happy marriage.
Peonies are perennial favorites in the flower garden and there are few herbaceous plants that can compete with their floral display and foliage. Their exquisite, large blossoms, frequently fragrant, not only make for excellent cut flowers but their foliage also offers the perfect background for both annuals and other perennials.
Primevere, this week’s ‘Plant of the Week’, offers flowers with one of the most unique color combinations of any peony around. This double peony variety features creamy white petals punctuated with a lemony-yellow center. It blooms late spring to early summer and does best in full sun to light shade. Primevere is a relatively low maintenance perennial, and should be cut back in late fall in preparation for winter. This beauty is great choice for attracting butterflies and bees, but is not particularly attractive to deer. Plant this in in beds, borders and use for foundation plantings. The possibilities are endless… so add a little old world charm to your landscape with Peony Primevere!
