Paeonia lactiflora 'Bowl of Beauty'

Bowl of Beauty Peony

Family: Paeoniaceae
Height: 24–36 inches
Width: 24–36 inches
Flower color: Outer petals are rose-pink; the center is filled with creamy-white, narrow, strap-like petals
Foliage color: Mid-green, divided leaves
Bloom time: Early to mid-summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moist but well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low; deadhead spent flowers and cut back foliage after it dies down in autumn
Growing zone: USDA zones 3–8
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies

About this plant

Paeonia lactiflora 'Bowl of Beauty' has unique, fully double flowers and an elegant color combination. The blooms are characterized by a central cluster of creamy white petals surrounded by bold pink outer petals, creating a beautiful, bowl-like shape. These large, fragrant flowers appear in late spring to early summer, offering a lovely contrast against the plant's deep green, leathery foliage. 'Bowl of Beauty' is often admired for its intricate petal arrangement, which gives the blooms a lush, full appearance, making it a focal point in any garden.

This peony thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full sun, where it grows into a bushy, rounded mound. Once established, 'Bowl of Beauty' is relatively low-maintenance and resistant to common peony pests and diseases. Its beautiful, fragrant blooms make it a popular choice for both ornamental gardens and cutting gardens. The plant's compact size and long-lasting flowers make it an excellent addition to borders, flower beds, or as a central feature in the garden.

Works well in

Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Astilbes · Foxgloves · Bergenias · Sedums · Columbines · Lungworts

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.