9 Fun Facts About Peonies That Will Make You Love Them Even More
If flowers had a royalty tier, peonies would be wearing the crown. Lush, romantic, and impossibly beautiful, they are one of the most requested flowers we carry at Bloomingmore, and for very good reason. Whether you are planning a wedding, a special event, or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, peonies never disappoint.
Here are nine fascinating facts about one of our all-time favorite blooms.
1. Peonies Have Roots in Ancient Mythology
The peony has one of the most dramatic origin stories in the flower world. In Greek mythology, the name comes from Paeon, the physician of the gods. When his mentor Asclepius grew jealous of his talents, Zeus transformed Paeon into a peony to save him. In another Greek myth, the nymph Paeonia was turned into a blushing peony flower by a jealous Aphrodite. And in Chinese mythology, the peony spirit Gejin left two tree peonies behind as a gift of love and remembrance. Three cultures, three legends, one extraordinary flower.
2. They Have Been Used as Medicine for Thousands of Years
Long before peonies were a wedding staple, they were a healing herb. Across Asia and Europe, peonies have been used for thousands of years to treat migraines, asthma, and even the pain of childbirth. The root of the peony plant was particularly prized in traditional Chinese medicine. Today we just enjoy their beauty, but it is good to know they have always been overachievers.
3. Peonies Are Considered Royalty Among Flowers
In ancient Greece, peonies were called the Queen of the Herbs. In ancient China, they were called the King of Flowers. That is a rare double title that no other flower can claim. Their reputation for opulence, beauty, and honor has followed them across centuries and continents, and it shows in every single bloom.
4. They Come in Every Color Except Blue
Peonies bloom in white, cream, blush, pink, coral, red, and deep burgundy, but never true blue. This is because no plant produces a true blue pigment naturally. So if you ever see a blue peony, it has been dyed. At Bloomingmore, we carry peonies in a range of natural colors so you can find the perfect shade for your palette without any tricks.
5. The Peony Is the Flower of the 12th Wedding Anniversary
If you are celebrating twelve years of marriage, peonies are the traditional gift. They symbolize a happy life, a happy marriage, good health, prosperity, and devotion. Honestly, they are a beautiful gift for any anniversary, but the 12th has a special claim on them.
6. Indiana Claimed the Peony as Its State Flower in 1957
The peony became the official state flower of Indiana in 1957, a nod to how deeply beloved this bloom is across the American Midwest. It is one of the few state flowers that is also a top wedding flower, a garden staple, and a florist favorite all at once.
7. Alaskan Peonies Are in a Category of Their Own
Here is something most people do not know: some of the most spectacular peonies in the world come from Alaska. Peony bulbs spend the entire winter dormant underground, and Alaskan peonies require a deep, heavy blanket of snow to insulate them through the long, cold winter months. That extreme cold is actually what makes them so extraordinary. The harsh conditions produce blooms that are exceptionally large, vibrant, and long-lasting.
Because of Alaska's unique growing season, Alaskan peonies are only available from July through the beginning of September, making them one of the most coveted and time-sensitive flowers we carry. If you have been dreaming of Alaskan peonies for a summer wedding or event, plan ahead and order early because they sell out fast. Check our peony collection for current availability.
8. Peonies Are Grown Around the World
The peonies you receive from Bloomingmore may have traveled from some of the best growing regions on the planet. We source our farm-fresh peonies from the United States, South America, and Europe, depending on the season and variety. Each region produces blooms with their own character, from the bold, oversized heads of Alaskan-grown peonies to the delicate, fragrant varieties from European farms. No matter the origin, every stem is selected for freshness and quality before it reaches your door.
9. They Arrive as Tight Buds and That Is a Good Thing
If your peonies arrive looking like firm little balls that seem like they will never open, do not worry. That is exactly how farm-fresh peonies are supposed to arrive. Shipping them in tight bud form protects them during transit and means you are getting the longest possible vase life.
Here is what to do when they arrive:
Remove the natural residue. Peonies sometimes have a sticky film around the bud. This is a natural sugar secreted by the plant and it is completely normal. You can gently dunk the buds in warm water or use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe it away. Removing this film helps the petals open more freely.
To open them faster, place the stems in warm water in a warm room away from direct sunlight. The combination of warmth and hydration signals the buds to open. You can have fully open blooms within 12 to 24 hours this way.
To slow them down, keep them in cool water in a cooler space. This is a great trick if your event is a few days away and you want to time the opening perfectly.
Peonies also come in a range of sizes depending on where and how they are grown, from smaller, more delicate blooms to large, dramatic heads that can fill a vase on their own. This natural variation is part of what makes each stem unique.
Ready to Shop Peonies?
Browse our farm-fresh peonies and pair them with fillers and greens or garden roses for a truly stunning arrangement. Not sure how many stems you need? Our Wedding Flower Calculator has you covered.
We Are Here to Help
Have questions about peonies or need help planning your order? Our Blooms Team is available Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm EST by chat and phone. You can also email us anytime. Visit our contact page to reach us.
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Happy Blooming!
Important Safety Note: All Bloomingmore flowers and plants are intended for decorative use only. Our products are not edible and should never be consumed. Many flowers and foliage varieties may be toxic or harmful to people and animals if ingested. Please keep all floral arrangements out of reach of children and pets, and wash your hands after handling. If you have concerns about a specific variety and pet or child safety, we recommend consulting your veterinarian or physician.