A garden classic with timeless white blooms and an unforgettable scent.
Peony Paeonia lactiflora ‘Duchesse de Nemours’ is the gold standard of white peonies — with fully double, ivory-white blooms and a soft lemony fragrance that lingers in the best way. Bred in 1856 and still topping the list for florists and gardeners alike, this variety is pure elegance in flower form.
Early to mid-season flowering in most UK gardens, it lights up borders from late May to early June, making it ideal for extending your cut flower season. Its long, sturdy stems and reliable bloom production also make it a must-grow for anyone filling vases or wedding buckets.
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.