Top 10 Peony Varieties: Essential Knowledge for Garden Enthusiasts

[Peony flower type-single petal type]

The single-petal peony epitomizes the archetypal peony blossom. The Fengdan Peony, a variety that has garnered significant attention online recently, exemplifies this category. Typically, single-petal peonies boast 1-3 layers of petals, presenting a flattened or semi-flattened bloom that prominently displays the central male and female stamens.

[Peony flower type-lotus type]

The lotus type represents an evolution from the single-petal peony, characterized as an older variant. These flowers feature normally developing pistils and robust fruit-bearing capabilities. Occasionally, certain varieties exhibit stamens or pistils that morph into petal-like structures. Common examples include Gong’e Qiaozhuang, emerald lotus, Jinyunhong, and snow lotus.

[Peony flower type-Chrysanthemum type]

With over six whorls of petals, chrysanthemum-type peonies display a meticulous arrangement and distinct layering. The petals diminish in size from the outer edges towards the center. Some varieties possess petaled stigmas and reduced fruiting efficacy. Notable representatives of this type include “rose red,” “Cluster Smile,” “Yinhong Qiaodui,” and “Jinpaohong.”

[Peony flower type – rose type]

rose-type peonies resemble chrysanthemum types but feature more petal layers and exude a luxurious, graceful elegance. Common varieties include Erqiao and Luoyang red.

[Peony flower type-Gui type]

named for their resemblance to a dish holding golden osmanthus from afar, Gui-type peonies typically have 2-3 petal layers. Common examples include Zhaofen and Dahuhong.

[Peony flower type-crown type]

Crown-type peonies, akin to the Tuogui type but more intricate, boast petals layered in a crown-like formation. Prominent varieties include Wei Zi, Yao Huang, and Shouchan red.

[Peony flower type-gold ring type]

Featuring 2-3 petal layers, gold ring-type peonies exhibit a striking mutation where some central stamens grow significantly larger, encircled by normal stamens, resembling a golden ring. Common varieties include “Hongying,” “Golden Belt,” “Jade Beauty,” and “Junyanhong.”

[Peony flower type-Hydrangea type]

Hydrangea-type peonies, much like hydrangea blooms, form full, rounded shapes, epitomizing the ideal of perfection in traditional Chinese aesthetics. The bean green is a typical hydrangea peony.

[Peony flower type-Thousand-story pavilion type]

This white-pink peony variety features medium-sized blooms and a unique layered appearance. The pistils turn into small green petals, interspersedaong pink layers, reminiscent of an imperial concubine’s adornment, earning the name “imperial concubine inserts green hairpins.” Varieties such as Luhe red, curling leaf red, and neon glow fall under this type.

[Peony flower type-louzitaige type]

Also known as Louzi flower, Louzitaige-type peonies have a unique structure resembling a multi-story building, with one layer atop another. Varieties include Xiantao, Shengdanlu, and red Dragon Huancai.

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