Overview

Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Paeonia, part of the Paeoniaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.8 m tall. Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cut flower and garden border. It is native to Central and eastern Asia.

About

Paeonia lactiflora is a species of herbaceous perennial flowering plant in the family Paeoniaceae, native to central and eastern Asia from eastern Tibet across northern China to eastern Siberia.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Paeonia lactiflora

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 4.0Peony

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Paeonia

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Full sun
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
herbaceous perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.8 m
Suggested uses
cut flower, garden border
Native to
Central and eastern Asia
Fragrance
Fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea'

Cultivation
Prefers well-drained soil, avoid waterlogging; plant in autumn or spring; mulch in winter
Pruning
Remove spent flowers to encourage tidiness; cut back foliage after frost
Propagation
Division in autumn or spring
Pest resistance
Leaf and bud eelworm, Soil-dwelling swift moth larvae
Disease resistance
Virus, Honey fungus, Verticillium wilt, Peony leaf blotch, Peony wilt

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea'?

Prefers well-drained soil, avoid waterlogging; plant in autumn or spring; mulch in winter.

Where is the best place to plant Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea'?

Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' need?

Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea'?

Remove spent flowers to encourage tidiness; cut back foliage after frost.

How big does Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' grow?

Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' reaches a height of 0.8 m.

Is Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' hardy in the UK?

Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Paeonia lactiflora 'Cytherea'?

Division in autumn or spring.

More in the Paeonia genus

Browse all Paeonia