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Paeonia lactiflora Red Sarah Bernhardt

paeony or peony

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Producing an abundance of lightly scented flowers in early summer, this wonderful peony will offer lashings of colour for both the border and the vase. First introduced in China in 1980, its name may hint at it being a red-flowered version of the ever-popular 'Sarah Bernhardt', however it really is quite unique - and despite its name, the flowers are more cerise-purple than red.

Paeonia lactiflora Red Sarah Bernhardt does however really pack a punch in the border, and once established, it will keep coming back year after year.

All of our peonies are field grown. We supply potted plants throughout the year, and subject to availability during the dormant winter months, we also offer bare-root plants (or tubers). If buying a potted plant, please keep in mind that some of the compost may still be a little loose, falling away when the plant is removed from the pot.

How to care for Paeonia lactiflora Red Sarah Bernhardt:

Where available, bare root peonies should be planted out or potted up as soon as possible, avoiding frosty or waterlogged conditions. Choose a sunny, well-drained position, as peonies flower best in full sun and dislike being moved once established.

Plant all peonies into well-prepared soil, ensuring the highest bud on the crown is no deeper than 5cm (2in) below the surface. For newly planted plants, protect emerging shoots from late frosts in their first spring. Keep plants well watered and fed during growth, using balanced, slow-release fertiliser rather than high-nitrogen feeds, and remove spent flowers once faded.

Mulch with well-rotted compost or manure, support tall stems to prevent flopping, maintain good air circulation, and remove any yellowing or diseased leaves. Avoid disturbing established crowns, as peonies dislike being moved may take a season or two to establish.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.9m
Position:

Full sun / light shade

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationThis perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
  • InformationPets: Skin irritant

Product options

Product options image
BU30003332
1 × bare root plant
£10.99
Delivered during January
Product options image
BU30003621
3 × bare root plants
£29.99 £10.00 each
Delivered during January
1
Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
Bulbs (only)£4.99

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