About

Paeonia (Gansu Group) 'Highdown' is a peony cultivar in the family Paeoniaceae that belongs to the Gansu Group within the genus Paeonia. Its principal feature is a concentrated bloom period in May to June. Plants are grown for that spring display and for integration into mixed borders and dedicated peony beds. Give it a season of growth after flowering to build reserves for the following year.

About the genus

The peony or paeony is any flowering plant in the genus Paeonia, the only genus in the family Paeoniaceae. Peonies are native to Asia, Europe, and Western North America. Scientists differ on the number of species that can be distinguished, ranging from 25 to 40, although the current consensus describes 33 known species.

Wikipedia contributors, "Peony", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Peony

In the garden

Paeonia (Gansu Group) 'Highdown' sits within the Gansu Group of peonies and is offered to gardens as a spring-flowering cultivar of the genus Paeonia. It performs its main display in the May to June window, providing a reliable focus when peonies are at their peak. The cultivar name indicates it has been selected and named for garden use. Select a position with good light and soil that drains freely; peonies do not tolerate prolonged waterlogging. Work organic matter into the planting area to improve structure and retain moisture through dry spells, and avoid heavy shade where flowering will be reduced. Apply a mulch after soil has cooled to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from crowns to reduce rot risk. Support may be required for flower heads in exposed locations to prevent stems bending under the weight of blooms. In a UK garden, 'Highdown' suits formal peony beds, the front of mixed herbaceous borders and cottage-style groupings where its May–June flowers can be the centrepiece. Plant with later-flowering perennials to extend interest beyond its bloom period. Because its main season is May to June, schedule companion plants so the border remains attractive once 'Highdown' finishes flowering.

More in the Paeonia genus

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  Paeoniapeony
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  Paeonia 'Archangel'peony 'Archangel'
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  Paeonia 'Chalice'Peony
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  Paeonia 'Early Bird'Peony
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  Paeonia 'Good Cheer'Peony
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  Paeonia 'Moonrise'peony 'Moonrise'
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  Paeonia 'White Innocence'peony 'White Innocence'
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  Paeonia lactiflora 'Edith Cavell'