Tree Peony Rose Growing Guide

What is Tree Peony Rose?

Tree Peony Rose (Paeonia suffruticosa) are a deciduous woody perennial shrub or small tree. It is part of the Paeoniaceae family and originated from China, Tibet and Bhutan. It’s know as the most difficult peony to grow, however with knowledge and persistence this gorgeous flowering shrub/tree will look spectacular in your garden and wont be too difficult. Flowering from Spring through to Summer, the silky fragrant blooms are quite large and can be in a variety of colours from white to yellow to pink, mauve and red. The foliage is dark green with a blue green under leaf displayed on an upright open branched habit. Tree Peonies do not like hot dry conditions, although they do grow well in Australia, especially in the cooler temperate areas. When planting Tree Peony Roses they flower best in dapple shade to part shade, however will tolerate full sun. Make sure the plant is sheltered from strong winds as the branches can snap easily. Application of some form of lime such as dolomite which is essential for peonies to grow well. Best soil pH is 7-7.5. Add dolomite lime to soil when planting.

The Tree Peony Rose has a graceful, branching structure and goes best in woodland garden settings or up against large walls where they will get good amounts of shade. They attract butterflies to your garden and are an important element to any cottage garden. They have a lovely fragrance, bring that scent inside as a cut flower and will last well in a vase.

How to Grow Tree Peony Rose

Tree Peony Black Panther

Climatic Zones

Cool to temperate.

Plant Size

Sizes vary.

When To Plant Tree Peony Rose

Plant in Winter to Early Spring.

Soil Preparation

They like well drained soil, but will tend to flower better in a heavier type of soil. Add lots of organic matter for best results. Prepare the soil with blood and bone, or well broken down compost prior to planting. Application of some form of lime such as dolomite which is essential for peonies to grow well. Best soil pH is 7-7.5. Add dolomite lime to soil when planting. Do not use animal manure as this will make the soil more acidic (the exception is poultry manure).

How To Plant Tree Peony Rose

Plant prefers dapple shade to part shade but can be planted in full sun, 1m apart with the plant crown at soil level. 

Tree Peony Rose Plant Care

Keep well watered during the growing period particularly during the hot Summers. Soil needs to stay moist but not water logged. Use a layer of mulch to keep the moisture in and keep the roots cool.

Top dress with lime in Winter, and a good layer of blood and bone in Spring and Autumn.

Remove spent blooms during the flowering period. Remove old or damaged foliage in Winter once plant is dormant.

Botrytis can be a problem in Spring; this can be controlled with regular use of a commercial spray.

Recommended Peony Rose Varieties

The Tree Peony is the national flower of China and long revered as “The King of Flowers”. They are thought to represent good fortune love and prosperity.

Tree Peony Themis

Tree Peony Alice Harding

Tree Peony Ice Age

Tree Peony Kinshe

Tree Peony Rose Flame

Tree Peony Banquet