Growing Flowers, Fruits & Veggies

Introduction of Paeonia rockii

P. rockii is known for the obvious black, purple, and brown-red spots at the base of petals. Its main features are:

1. Tall plant, can reach 2-3 m high, crown width 3-4 m.

2. Big and bright flower, the diameter can reach 18-25 cm.

3. Strong fragrance; the smell of one open flower can dominate that of 10 other open flowers from another peony.

4. Resistance to drought and frost; tolerance of salt and base. Can bear temperatures as low as -43°C; can still grow normally at pH above 7.

5. Distinct Purple/black spots at the base of the petals.

The cultivation of Paeonia rockii is simple and does not require strict management; it is less attacked by diseases and pests, but in hot and humid weather leaves will grow mould and present scorched leaf symptoms; a sterilizing can be sprayed on foliage to combat the disease.

The planting seasons are fall and spring.

There are 3 ways of propagation: sowing, budding, and grafting.

Sown seeds can blossom after five years; grafted and budded seedlings can blossom just after plantation, but need 2-3 years after the rejuvenation period to offer a better blossom.

I wonder why Paeonia rockii can resist cold?

Very Pretty flowers, not sure about the reason for the hardiness. It seems like from reading about it that it is more of a small woody tree that originates in China.

I thought that some of the peonies orginated in Japan. Maybe my thinking is off, but i would that that those originating from China would offer more cold tolerance. ????