Peony, Tree (Paeonia suffriticosa), packet of 10 seeds, organic

Family:  Peony (Paeoniaceae)

Hardy to Zones 4 to 10

(Paeonia suffriticosa, Mountain Peony, Mu-dan, Feng Dan Bai) Woody perennial deciduous shrub native to China.  Although the seed really does take a long time to come up (one to two years*), it is a very robust germinator (falling into the self-generated class of “volcanic germinators”) it is quite reliable.  After the wait, its always a surprise when they do germinate–almost always in the spring.  The best way to control the seeds, I have found, is to plant in good potting soil in gallon pots and keep in the shade house.  Mulch the pots to keep them from drying out.  Seedlings should be individuated after they set their first true leaves, and grown out in gallon pots for another year at least before transplanting to the landscape.  The plant prefers part shade and a cool root system.  Plant grows to as tall as 6 feet, and may be set to the landscape at least 6 feet apart.

10 seeds/pkt., Certified Organically Grown

*Seeds planted on 10/30/2019 germinated on 2/9/2021, a 464 day induction period.  Photo in gallery.  RAC