1 / 4Key characteristics
- Family
- Paeoniaceae
- Height
- 32–34 inches
- Width
- 12–24 inches
- Flower color
- Bright rose-pink; fully double blooms, lying flat on top of the bush
- Foliage color
- Dark green
- Bloom time
- Early to mid-summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; deadheading spent flowers can encourage continuous blooming
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 2–8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and butterflies
Perennials
Paeonia 'Wilford Johnson'
Wilford Johnson Peony
Paeonia 'Wilford Johnson' is a distinctive peony known for its double, bright rose-pink flowers that create a beautiful contrast against its dark green foliage. The blooms are large and rounded, offering a classic, elegant appearance in mid to late spring. These full, rich blossoms form a dense cluster, bringing bold color to the garden. The plant has a barrel-shaped growth habit, with sturdy stems and lush leaves that extend close to the ground.
Works well in
- Borders
- Sun Gardens
- Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Shasta daisies · Asters · Catmint · Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm
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.
More perennials

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'
Foerster's Feather Reed Grass
Blooms pink-purple tinged turning to blonde-tan
Full sun to partial shade

Gladiolus oppositiflorus
Transkei Gladiolus
Blooms pale pink to orange with darker markings
Full sun

Centaurea montana
Perennial Cornflower
Blooms blue, purple, or pink
Full sun to part shade

Liatris spicata
Dense Blazing Star
Blooms purple to pink flowers arranged in a tall, spiky form
Full sun