Tree Peony
Paeonia luteafam. Paeoniaceae
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Pl. F7EF — Paeonia lutea
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IOverview
Overview
Tree Peony, scientifically known as Paeonia lutea, is a deciduous shrub native to the South-Central regions of China and Tibet. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 1.5 meters in height. Tree Peony is both edible and medicinal; its flowers are used for culinary purposes. Additionally, it has a long history of use in traditional medicine. One distinctive feature of this plant is its large, fragrant blooms that come in various colors, making it an ornamental addition to gardens as well.
Quick answers
What is Tree Peony?
Tree Peony, scientifically known as Paeonia lutea, is a deciduous shrub native to the South-Central regions of China and Tibet. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tree Peony, or Paeonia lutea, thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in hardiness zones 6-9 and reaches a height of about 1.5 meters. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining. Propagate through division or seed sowing. The flowers are edible and can be enjoyed fresh or used in culinary applications.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tree Peony for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, light-loving Tree Peony for your first gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Tree Peony plant or seeds, a trowel, compost, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your garden has well-draining soil. Amend with compost if necessary, and prepare a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young Tree Peonies in early spring or fall. For seeds, sow them in late summer or early autumn.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid direct sunlight for a few days after planting.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light to partial sun exposure, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize in early spring with compost or a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead or damaged branches after flowering. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners face with Tree Peonies.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The Tree Peony's flowers are edible and can be consumed raw or used to make tea. They add a delicate flavor to salads and are sometimes steeped for a fragrant beverage.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Paeoniaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Paeoniaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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