When it comes to flowers, one of the most celebrated blooms is definitely the peony. With its lush, rounded shape and gorgeous shades of pink, red, and white, it’s no wonder that this flower is a popular centerpiece and gift option. However, did you know that there’s another type of peony out there that might just rival the standard variety in beauty? Enter the tree peony, a stunning plant that boasts showy, oversized blossoms in bold hues. But what exactly makes these two flowers different?
Firstly, let’s talk about the basics. Peonies are herbaceous perennials, which means that they die back to the ground during the winter months and return in the spring. They typically grow to be around 2-4 feet tall and have lush, fragrant blooms that can be as large as 10 inches in diameter. Tree peonies, on the other hand, are woody shrubs that produce large, showy flowers on thick, sturdy stems. They can grow to be significantly taller than regular peonies, often reaching heights of 6 feet or more.
So, what else sets these two plants apart? Well, tree peonies are known for their longer blooming season – while regular peonies tend to bloom for just a few weeks in the late spring, tree peonies can produce flowers for up to two months. Additionally, their blossoms are often much larger and more vibrant than those of regular peonies, and the plant itself is generally considered to be hardier and easier to grow. So whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just someone who appreciates the beauty of flowers, it’s clear that both regular peonies and tree peonies have plenty to offer.
What are Peonies and Tree Peonies?
Peonies are beautiful flowering plants that have been grown for centuries. They are native to China, Japan, and Korea, but have since been cultivated and grown all over the world. Peonies are known for their large, fragrant, and showy flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, including pink, red, white, and yellow. They are typically grown in gardens and used as cut flowers in floral arrangements.
Tree peonies, on the other hand, are a specific type of peony that grow on trees and shrubs. Unlike traditional peonies, which die back to the ground in the winter, tree peonies are woody and remain above ground year-round. They are also known for their large, stunning flowers, which are often larger and more vibrant than those of traditional peonies.
Peonies vs. Tree Peonies: What’s the Difference?
- Their Growth Habits – As mentioned, traditional peonies die back to the ground in winter and regrow in spring. Tree peonies, on the other hand, are woody and remain above ground year-round.
- Size of Flowers – While traditional peonies have large and fragrant flowers, tree peonies often have even larger and more showy blooms.
- Lifespan – Traditional peonies can live for decades if properly cared for. Tree peonies, on the other hand, can live for centuries and are often considered heirloom plants passed down through generations.
- Price – Tree peonies are often more expensive than traditional peonies due to their longer lifespan and more delicate nature.
How to Grow Peonies and Tree Peonies
Both peonies and tree peonies require similar growing conditions. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It’s important to plant them at the right depth, with the top of the root ball level with the surface of the soil. Peonies and tree peonies also require a cold period in winter to bloom properly, and they should be watered regularly during the growing season.
Peonies and tree peonies can be propagated through division, which should be done in the fall after the foliage has died back. It’s also important to prune dead or damaged stems as needed.
Summary
Peonies and tree peonies are both stunning flowering plants that are beloved by gardeners and floral enthusiasts around the world. While they have similar growing conditions, tree peonies have a unique growth habit and often produce larger, more vibrant blooms. Regardless of which variety you choose, both are sure to add beauty and elegance to any garden or floral arrangement.
| Peonies | Tree Peonies |
|---|---|
| Die back to the ground in winter | Woody and remain above ground year-round |
| Large, fragrant flowers in a variety of colors | Large and even more vibrant flowers |
| Live for decades | Live for centuries |
| Less expensive | More expensive |
Regardless of which variety you choose, both peonies and tree peonies require similar growing conditions and will provide stunning beauty in any garden or floral arrangement.
Differences in Appearance
While peonies and tree peonies may share some similarities in their appearance, these two types of flowers are also quite distinct from each other. Here are the key differences in their appearance:
- Peonies typically grow to be around 2 to 3 feet tall, while tree peonies can grow up to 7 feet tall.
- The leaves of peonies tend to be green, while the leaves of tree peonies can be green, purple, or red.
- The flowers of peonies are often single or double blooms, while tree peonies can have up to 10 single or double blooms on one stem.
The color of both types of flowers can vary widely, ranging from pure white to deep reds and purples, with many shades in between. However, tree peonies are often known for their bold, bright colors that can be harder to find in the more common peony varieties.
In terms of shape, both peonies and tree peonies have large, showy blooms with layers of petals. However, the shape of the two flowers is slightly different. Peony flowers tend to be cup-shaped, while tree peonies often have a more open, bowl-shaped appearance.
More Differences
While appearance is certainly one of the most obvious differences between peonies and tree peonies, there are other factors that set these flowers apart as well. For example:
– Range of hardiness: Peonies are known for being hardy and can grow in a variety of climates, while tree peonies require specific conditions to thrive.
– Flowering time: Peonies tend to bloom in late spring or early summer, while tree peonies typically bloom a bit earlier, in mid to late spring.
– Growth habit: Peonies grow from herbaceous plants that die back in the winter, while tree peonies are woody shrubs that remain partially green throughout the winter.
| Characteristic | Peonies | Tree Peonies |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 2 to 3 feet tall | Up to 7 feet tall |
| Leaf Color | Green | Green, purple, or red |
| Number of Blooms per Stem | 1-2 | Up to 10 |
In summary, while peonies and tree peonies may look similar at first glance, there are a number of key differences in their appearance, growth habits, and growing conditions. By understanding these differences, you can choose the right type of flower for your garden or floral arrangement and appreciate the unique beauty of each.
Differences in Blooming Time
One of the biggest differences between peonies and tree peonies is their blooming time. The blooming period for peonies is shorter, ranging usually from mid to late spring, while tree peonies have a longer blooming period, sometimes lasting up to eight weeks. This is due to the fact that tree peonies typically have a larger number of buds and blooms, and they bloom sequentially rather than all at once.
- Peonies bloom from mid to late spring
- Tree peonies have a longer blooming period, sometimes lasting up to eight weeks
- Tree peonies have a larger number of buds and blooms, and they bloom sequentially
If you want to extend the blooming period of your peonies, you can plant different varieties that bloom at different times. This will give you a longer period of colorful blooms in your garden. As for tree peonies, because they have a longer blooming period, it’s important to give them some extra attention and care to ensure they continue to thrive throughout their blooms.
Here’s a table that shows the bloom time for some popular peony varieties:
| Variety | Bloom Time |
|---|---|
| Early Scout | Mid-spring |
| Karl Rosenfield | Late spring |
| Festiva Maxima | Mid to late spring |
| Coral Sunset | Late spring |
| Sarah Bernhardt | Mid to late spring |
It’s important to note that bloom times can vary depending on your climate and growing conditions. But with the right care and attention, you can enjoy a stunning display of peony blooms in your garden year after year.
Differences in Height and Spread
One of the most apparent distinctions between peonies and tree peonies is their height and spread. Peonies are herbaceous perennials and typically grow to be 2 to 3 feet in height with a similar spread. On the other hand, tree peonies are shrubs that can grow to heights of up to 10 feet with a width of up to 7 feet. Let’s examine these differences in more detail.
- Peonies: Herbaceous peonies grow from a network of fleshy roots and produce foliage that dies down in the fall. These peonies are often wider than they are tall, and their stems collapse if they get too tall or hold up too much foliage. Peonies work best when placed in the front or middle of the border, and do well in pots on patios or balconies.
- Tree Peonies: Tree Peonies differ from their herbaceous counterparts in a few ways. Primarily, the woody stems can hold up the weight of their prolific blooms. They thrive in a garden as a standalone shrub or placed in a shrub border where they can be the focal point. They are often pruned to keep a tidy shape and promote airflow and sunlight penetration.
So, whether you’re looking for a small but robust plant with vibrant blooms or a shrub that towers over your garden, understanding the differences between these two types of peonies can help you make the perfect choice for your garden.
When deciding on what to plant, take into consideration other plants and the space available based on potential growth. Below is a simple chart comparing the estimated height, width, and zone of both plant varieties:
| Plant Name | Height | Width | Growth Zone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herbaceous Peonies | 2-3 feet | 2-3 feet | 3-8 |
| Tree Peonies | 3-6 feet | 4-7 feet | 4-7 |
With this information, you can make an informed decision about which type of peony will best fit your garden’s needs.
Differences in Hardiness Zones
One of the most important differences between peonies and tree peonies is their hardiness zones. Hardiness zones refer to the climatic conditions that a plant can tolerate without damage. Understanding the hardiness zones of both peonies and tree peonies is crucial to their growth and survival.
- Peonies are hardy from zones 3 to 8, which means they can tolerate cold temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) in winter.
- Tree peonies, on the other hand, are hardy from zones 4 to 9, which means they can tolerate slightly warmer temperatures compared to peonies.
- It’s important to choose the right variety of peony or tree peony for your climate to ensure it will thrive in your garden.
If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s important to select a peony or tree peony that can withstand those conditions. Likewise, if you live in an area with mild winters, you’ll want to choose a variety that won’t be damaged by warmer temperatures.
To identify your hardiness zone, you can use the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which divides the United States into 13 zones based on the lowest average temperature of each region. You can then use this information to select the appropriate peony or tree peony variety for your area.
| Peony Cultivar | Hardiness Zone |
|---|---|
| Bowl of Beauty | 3-8 |
| Karl Rosenfield | 3-8 |
| Festiva Maxima | 3-8 |
| Red Charm | 3-8 |
| Lady Alexandra Duff | 3-8 |
| Imperial Princess | 4-9 |
| Golden Era | 4-9 |
| High Noon | 4-9 |
| Renkaku | 4-9 |
| Shintenchi | 4-9 |
By understanding the differences in hardiness zones between peonies and tree peonies, you can select the appropriate cultivar for your climate and ensure the health and vitality of your plants.
Differences in Care and Maintenance
Peonies and tree peonies may look similar, but their care and maintenance requirements vary. Below are some differences to note:
- Watering: Regular watering is crucial for peonies, and they require well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. In contrast, tree peonies prefer moist but well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought.
- Fertilizing: Peonies benefit from fertilization once or twice a year, with a balanced fertilizer in spring and a low-nitrogen fertilizer in fall. Tree peonies, on the other hand, are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization throughout the growing season.
- Pruning: Peonies only require pruning to remove dead or damaged stems in fall. In contrast, tree peonies need more extensive pruning to remove dead wood, shape the plant, and promote new growth; this should be done after flowering in spring.
If you’re considering planting peonies or tree peonies, it’s important to keep in mind their differing care and maintenance requirements. However, both plants are generally low-maintenance and relatively pest/disease-free.
Additionally, below is a table that summarizes some of the key differences in care and maintenance:
| Peonies | Tree Peonies | |
|---|---|---|
| Watering | Well-draining soil; regular watering | Moist, well-draining soil; can tolerate some drought |
| Fertilizing | Once/twice a year with balanced fertilizer in spring and low-nitrogen fertilizer in fall | Regular fertilization throughout growing season |
| Pruning | Prune dead/damaged stems in fall | Prune dead wood, shape plant, promote new growth after flowering in spring |
Varieties of Peonies and Tree Peonies
Peonies and tree peonies are gorgeous flowering plants that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any garden. While both of these plants share similarities, they are not the same. To help you understand the differences between these two plants, we will explore their various varieties.
- Herbaceous peonies: These are the most common peonies. They have soft stems and tend to die back each winter, then grow back from the ground in the spring. The flowers come in a wide range of colors and can be single or double blooms.
- Intersectional peonies: Also known as Itoh peonies, these are hybrids of herbaceous and tree peonies. They have sturdy stems and their flowers are often bi-colored, ranging from yellow to red tones.
- Tree peonies: These peonies have woody stems and do not die back in the winter. They can grow quite tall and are available in a wide range of colors. Tree peonies also produce larger, more showy blooms than other types of peonies.
- Bush peonies: Also known as Paeonia suffruticosa, these peonies are similar to tree peonies, but their stems are more shrub-like. They produce large, beautiful flowers in shades of pink, white, and red.
- Rare peonies: There are a number of rare peonies that are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. These include varieties such as the Japanese Itoh peony ‘Bartzella’ and the ‘Scarlet O’Hara’ tree peony, which has deep burgundy red flowers.
- Species peonies: These are the wild ancestors of cultivated peonies. They tend to have simpler, single-petaled blooms and are often highly fragrant. Examples include Paeonia lactiflora and Paeonia tenuifolia.
- Hybrid peonies: These types of peonies are a combination of two or more different species or varieties. They can produce unique and interesting flowers that may have characteristics of both parents.
If you are considering adding peonies to your garden, it is important to choose the right variety for your space and preferences. Some factors to consider include bloom time, size, color, and fragrance. Do your research to find the perfect peony variety for your garden and enjoy the stunning beauty and elegance it will bring to your outdoor space.
In summary, peonies and tree peonies have various varieties with specific characteristics that make them unique from one another. Knowing each variety’s traits will help you determine the right plant for your garden space and preferences.
| Peony Variety | Type of Plant | Bloom Time |
|---|---|---|
| Herbaceous peonies | Soft-stemmed | Spring to early summer |
| Intersectional peonies | Hybrid of herbaceous and tree peonies | Spring to early summer |
| Tree peonies | Woody-stemmed | Mid-spring to early summer |
| Bush peonies | Shrub-like | Spring to early summer |
| Rare peonies | Highly sought after | Spring to early summer |
| Species peonies | Wild ancestors of cultivated peonies | Spring to early summer |
| Hybrid peonies | Combination of two or more different species or varieties | Spring to early summer |
Hopefully, this article has helped you understand the various varieties of peonies and tree peonies. By choosing the right variety, you can ensure that you have a beautiful and thriving garden.
What is the difference between peonies and tree peonies?
1. What are peonies? Peonies are herbaceous perennials that grow in a bush-like shape and have large, showy blooms in shades of pink, white, red and yellow. They are native to Asia, Europe and North America.
2. What are tree peonies? Tree peonies are a shrubby form of peony that grow on woody stems and can reach up to six feet tall. They have larger blooms and are available in a wider range of colors than traditional peonies, including purple, orange and coral.
3. What is the difference in appearance? The main difference between peonies and tree peonies is the woody stems of the latter. Tree peonies also have wider, flatter blooms than traditional peonies.
4. What is the difference in care? Peonies require full sun to part shade and well-draining soil. Tree peonies, on the other hand, prefer fertile soil and some shade during the hottest part of the day.
5. Can I grow both types of peonies in my garden? Yes, both types can be grown in the same garden. However, it’s important to note that tree peonies may need more space and support than traditional peonies.
Thanks for exploring the difference with me!
Now that you know the difference between peonies and tree peonies, you can choose the right plant for your garden. Both types of peonies are beautiful and require minimal care once established. Thanks for reading and be sure to come back for more gardening tips and tricks!