Paeonia lactiflora 'Many Happy Returns'

Many Happy Returns Peony

Height: 24–36 inches
Width: 24–36 inches
Flower color: Bright red, double blooms with rich, warm tones
Foliage color: Glossy medium to dark green
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun to light shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low, cut back foliage after frost; remove spent blooms; strong, upright stems
Growing zone: USDA zones 3–8
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and other pollinators; good deer and rabbit resistance; excellent for cut‑flower use

About this plant

Paeonia lactiflora 'Many Happy Returns' has lush, double blossoms in a warm, rich red that retains its intensity even under bright sun. The flowers emerge in late spring and range from anemone to bomb form, filled with a dense center and edged guard petals. The large blooms typically last around a week, offering excellent longevity in both garden beds and vase arrangements, with a subtle fragrance enhancing their presence.

Introduced in 1986 by Hollingsworth and first blooming in 1979, 'Many Happy Returns' has earned the American Peony Society's Gold Medal in 2007 along with the Award of Landscape Merit in 2009, recognizing its floriferous nature and reliable performance. Its sturdy stalks and richly hued blossoms make it a favorite for cut flower use, performing well in refrigerated storage and lasting for weeks out of the garden.

Works well in

Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies · Lavender · Coreopsis · Russian sage · Sedums

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at Peonies at Glencoe Farms.