Paeonia suffruticosa aka Moutan Peony
Taxonomy
Paeonia × suffruticosa, also known as the tree peony or Chinese tree peony, is a group of cultivars that have been hybridized with species exclusively from the subsection Vaginatae. Originating from China, these tree peonies have been cultivated for centuries for both their medicinal properties and ornamental value. The plants, which can reach up to 2m in height, have divided leaves and bear large, cup-shaped, single or semi-double flowers in shades of pink or white during late spring and early summer. Despite being classified as trees, it is the beautiful flowers of Paeonia × suffruticosa that capture people's attention.
Common names
Moutan Peony, Japanese Tree Peony, Mdn, Tree Peony, Chinese Tree PeonyHow to care for Moutan Peony
Difficulty
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Moutan Peony is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
Water
Moutan Peony should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Moutan Peony loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Moutan Peony prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Moutan Peony to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Moutan Peony grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Moutan Peony as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Moutan Peony’s native range is E. Asia - China to the Himalayas.
More info:
Wikipedia
