Paeonia x lactiflora 'Abalone Pearl'

Abalone Pearl Peony

Height: 24–32 inches tall
Width: 24–30 inches wide
Flower color: Warm coral-pink, fade to cream as they age
Foliage color: Glossy deep green divided foliage
Bloom time: Early to mid-season
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low, remove spent blooms, cut foliage to ground after frost; rarely needs division
Growing zone: USDA zones 3–8
Wildlife: Fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; deer- and rabbit-resistant

About this plant

Paeonia × lactiflora 'Abalone Pearl' is an herbaceous peony known for its semi-double, cup-shaped blossoms that open in a glowing coral-pink and gracefully fade to creamy ivory as they mature. Blooming from late spring into early summer, the generous blooms feature golden-yellow stamens, releasing a gentle fragrance that enhances garden charm. The flowers are held aloft on sturdy stems, making them ideal for fresh-cut arrangements where they maintain long-lasting beauty when harvested in the bud stage.

'Abalone Pearl' provides consistent, early bloom performance and reliable floral presence in the landscape. The rich, dark-green foliage persists throughout the season, providing a lush backdrop for the soft-hued blossoms. It is noted for deer resistance, strong stem structure, and effortless integration into borders or cutting gardens, marking it as both a practical and delightful spring flowering choice.

Works well in

Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns · Astilbes

Design tip

Use it as a steady framework plant, repeating it along a bed to tie separate plantings together. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at Brooks Peonies Gardens.