June Flower of the Month: Peony
The most requested flower all year long that we receive is for the Peony. However we only carry this fabulous flower during the peak season for the flower which is end of May through June. This is when the Peony is consistently biggest and best. The Peony is a flowering plant in the genus Paeonia.
Peonies come in many different varieties which can vary by color or shape. For instance, the Red Charm is a bomb type because of its round shape and explosion of multiple petals. The Coral Charm has multiple outer petals and a distinct center. Peonies come in reds, pinks, corals, yellows, whites and creams. Most Peonies in the bud stage are about the size of a tennis ball. Fully opened blossoms can reach 5-6 inches across which explains their popularity.
Peonies originated in Asia; China, Tibet and Siberia. These fragrant flowers were highly esteemed in the courts of the emperors. With the arrival of Europeans into China by the 1600s, there was a fascination with these treasured beauties. This initiated a multi-generational rage for peonies in Europe and North America. Currently in the US the most popular area of growth is Oregon and Alaska.
Care of Peonies is the same as with any other cut flower- clean vase, flower preservative, cut stems on an angle, change water after about 5 days. They are quick to bloom from the bud stage and have a good vase life, 7-10 days.
Fun Facts- Ancient Chinese texts mention the Peony was used for flavoring food. Confucius is quoted to have said: "I eat nothing without its sauce. I enjoy it very much, because of its flavor." One mythological story of the Peony is that it is named after Paeon. He was a student of Asclepius, a Greek god of medicine and healing. In Greek mythology, when Asclepius became jealous of his pupil for helping Pluto heal from an arrow wound he kills Paeon. Zeus finds Paeon and turns him into a Peony flowers. And Peonies are the flower for 12 year wedding anniversaries...hint hint :)
Some of the varieties we carry here are Big Ben, Coral Charm, Red Charm, Festiva Maxima, Duchess de Nemours, Angel Cheeks and Monsieur Jules Elie. The Peony is highly regarded here at La Fleur just check out our logo! Call today to get these beauties before they are gone!