About
A rhizomatous begonia with broadly ovate, dark green, glossy leaves bearing distinctive cuff-like bracts (manicata) on the leaf stalks, and erect, branching panicles of small, pale pink flowers in winter and early spring. A classic Victorian begonia houseplant for a warm, shaded windowsill.
About the genus
Paeonia may be herbaceous perennials or deciduous sub-shrubs with large, divided leaves and showy large bowl-shaped flowers, usually in early summer
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, specimen planting, cutting gardens. Superb cut flowers
Care notes
CultivationDeep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun or light shade. Plant crowns no more than 2.5cm deep
PruningDeadhead after flowering. Cut foliage to ground in late autumn
PropagationDivide established clumps in autumn, ensuring each division has 3-5 eyes
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Ants on buds are harmless
Disease resistancePeony wilt (botrytis) in damp springs. Remove affected stems promptly