Overview
Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Paeonia, part of the Paeoniaceae family. It typically grows around 0.8 m tall. Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. 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 4.0 — Paeonia 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 4.0 — Peony
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Paeonia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 0.8 m
- Suggested uses
- Cut flower, Garden border
- Native to
- Central and eastern Asia
- Fragrance
- Mild, sweet
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple'
- Cultivation
- Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Mulch in winter to protect roots.
- Pruning
- Deadhead spent flowers. Cut back foliage after it yellows in autumn.
- Propagation
- Division in autumn or early spring
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple'?
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Mulch in winter to protect roots.
Where is the best place to plant Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple'?
Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' need?
Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple'?
Deadhead spent flowers. Cut back foliage after it yellows in autumn.
How big does Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' grow?
Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' reaches a height of 0.8 m.
Is Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' hardy in the UK?
Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' 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 'Shirley Temple'?
Division in autumn or early spring.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Paeonia genus
- Paeoniapeony
- Paeonia 'Archangel'peony 'Archangel'
- Paeonia 'Chalice'Peony
- Paeonia 'Early Bird'Peony
- Paeonia 'Good Cheer'Peony
- Paeonia 'Moonrise'peony 'Moonrise'
- Paeonia 'White Innocence'peony 'White Innocence'
- Paeonia (Gansu Group) 'Highdown' (S)
