Tree peony
Paeonia x suffruticosa

Family: Paeoniaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It loses its leaves during the year. It grows 2 m tall and 3 m wide. The flowers are pink to white. It often has purple patches at the base of the petals. There are a large number of hybrids as well as the original.

The roots have anticancer properties. The flowers have anti-oxidant properties.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It can grow in a range of soils including very alkaline. It is best in moist soil. It can tolerate light shade. It suits hardiness zones 4-8. Arboretum Tasmania. In Yunnan.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Britain, China, Europe, Himalayas, Korea, North America, SE Asia, Tasmania, USA, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The fallen flower petals are parboiled, sweetened and eaten. They are also cooked in various dishes.

Edible parts

Flower petals, flowers

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seeds. It can be grown as a hedge.

Plants grow slowly but last a long time.

Its other names

Local names

Botan, Moutan, Mu-tan

Synonyms

Paeonia x moutan Sims; and others