The queen of late-season peonies — and a florist’s dream.
Peony Paeonia lactiflora ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ is one of the most iconic and best-loved herbaceous peonies in the world. With huge, double blooms in soft rose-pink and a classic ruffled shape, it brings romance and drama to every garden bed, bouquet, or bridal arrangement.
This late-flowering variety is known for its incredible vase life, strong stems, and rich fragrance — making it a go-to choice for cut flower growers and peony lovers alike. Blooming in June in most UK gardens, it pairs beautifully with hardy annuals and early summer perennials.
 
When to Plant: October – March (bare root) or spring (potted plants)
In colder regions, plant bare-root Peonies in autumn while the ground is still workable, allowing them to establish before the deep freeze. In milder areas, you can plant through to early spring. Avoid planting too deep — the eyes (buds) should sit no more than 3–5 cm below the soil surface or they may not flower.
 
Classification: Hardy Perennial
Site: Full Sun (they’ll tolerate light shade, but you’ll sacrifice blooms)
Soil: Neutral to slightly alkaline, rich and well-drained
Moisture: Moist but not soggy
Expert Level: Easy to Medium (patience required — they hate being moved)
 
How to Plant Peonies:
Choose a sunny, well-drained spot with space for airflow. Work in plenty of compost or well-rotted manure. If planting bare root, position with the red buds facing upwards, just below soil level. Water in well and mulch lightly. Peonies can take 1–2 years to settle in and bloom — but once they do, they’ll flower more abundantly with each passing year.
 
Flowering Period: Late Spring to Early Summer
Location: Sunny, sheltered spot with airflow
Maturity: Flowers from year 2–3 onward
Height: 60–90 cm depending on variety
Harvesting: Cut when buds are soft like a marshmallow, showing colour but not yet open.
Vase Life: 5–7 days (up to 10 with floral preservatives)
Cut & Come Again: Single flush — but what a flush it is.