1 / 4

Key characteristics

Height: 24–35 inches tall
Width: 24–32 inches across
Flower color: coral‑pink, transitioning to deep pink, salmon, peach, and cream
Foliage color: glossy, medium to dark green
Bloom time: late spring to early summer
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: moderate
Maintenance: low, remove spent flowers, cut foliage to ground after frost, mulch before winter; sturdy stems generally require no staking
Growing zone: USDA zones 3–9
Wildlife: fragrant blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; resistant to deer and rabbits; excellent cut flower choice

Perennials

Paeonia lactiflora 'Lorelei'

Lorelei Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Lorelei' opens its buds in late spring to early summer, presenting large, bomb-shaped blossoms in a glowing coral-pink that elegantly shift through apricot and soft pink before reaching a creamy ivory. Each bloom is deeply filled with ruffled petals, exuding a sweet, spicy fragrance. The flowers are held by sturdy stems that support the weight of its hefty blooms, making them ideal for cutting.

Light

full sun to partial shade

Water

moderate

Bloom time

late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Cottage Gardens
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.