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How to Grow Peony

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)

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Supplies You'll Need

Flower Garden Soil Pruning Shears Garden Gloves Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Paeonia lactiflora
Category flower
Type Bare-root perennial (fall-planted)
Days to Maturity 240 days
Starting Method Plant in Fall

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun (6+ hours)

Water

Moderate

Spacing

36" apart

Depth

2" deep

Height

24-36"

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Companion Planting Guide for Peony

Discover which plants grow well with Peony and which to keep at a distance for a healthier garden →

Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Divide clumps in early fall: cut the root mass into sections with 3–5 eyes each and replant shallow.

Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 3 plants of Peony. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Peony Planting Calendar by Zone

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Peony Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Peony? +

Plant Peony in fall, about 6 weeks before your area's first fall frost, so roots establish before the ground freezes. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Peony take to grow? +

Peony typically blooms in about 240 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Peony indoors or direct sow? +

Neither — Peony isn't grown from seed at home. Buy a container-grown or bare-root plant from a nursery and plant it outdoors at the right time for your local frost dates.

How much sun does Peony need? +

Peony requires full sun (6+ hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Peony? +

Space Peony plants 36 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Peony need? +

Peony has moderate water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Peony? +

Peony is not typically propagated by seed. Divide clumps in early fall: cut the root mass into sections with 3–5 eyes each and replant shallow.

About Peony

Long-lived perennial — a well-sited peony blooms for decades. Plant bare-root divisions in fall with the buds ("eyes") no more than 2 inches deep; planted deeper, peonies leaf out but refuse to bloom. Full-sized plants take about 3 years.

Expect your Peony to be ready for harvest in approximately 240 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.