Paeonia Peregrina

Glossy, ruby-red bowls with pink or red filaments, and golden anthers, are held over deeply cleft, glossy-green leaves. This is one of the most sumptuous and desirable of all of this group of choice plants as it will slowly spread, unlike most other species which only make a congested clump. Native to the Balkans and south-eastern Europe, this species grows in open grassland and woodland margins, favouring fertile soils and plenty of light. Plants form sturdy clumps of divided foliage, followed by large, showy flowers that are particularly effective in mixed borders and naturalistic planting. Seed-grown plants are variable and may take several years to reach flowering size, but produce long-lived, robust plants once established. Best grown in full sun or light shade in fertile, well-drained soil, Paeonia peregrina dislikes disturbance and should be planted with care, allowing space for long-term growth.