Peony Roses: History Care and Uses – a Dublin Florists Guide

As a Dublin florist, I often asked about peony roses. These beautiful flowers are a popular choice for weddings, events and to send as gifts. They come in a wide variety of colours, from classic whites and creams to yellows, soft pinks, vibrant purples and deep burgundy reds.

But what makes peony roses so special and how can you care for them to ensure they look their best? In this guide, we’ll explore the history, origins, care, and uses of peony roses.

Darp pink peony roses for delivery in Dublin

The History of Peony Roses

Peony roses, also known as Paeonia, have a rich history that dates back to ancient China. The Chinese cultivated these flowers for over 2,000 years for their medicinal properties, which were believed to alleviate pain, calm the mind and cure a variety of ailments. Peony roses were also seen as a symbol of wealth, honour and good fortune.

The first peony roses were brought to Europe in the 18th century where they quickly became a favourite among aristocrats and royalty. In the 19th century, the French developed a hybrid peony rose that combined the best qualities of the Chinese and European varieties. Today, peony roses are grown all over the world and they remain a flower beloved for their beauty and symbolism.

Peony Rose Bouquet Care

If you buy or receive a peony rose bouquet, please follow these instructions to get the best from your flowers.

  • Carefully remove all packaging and then cut approx 2cm from the end of each flower and foliage stem at a sharp angle.
  • Fill a clean vase with cool water.
  • Add flower food and stir. Flower food should come with your bouquet or you can buy from any good local florist.
  • Remove all foliage from the flower stems up to the rim of the vase that you are using.
  • Gently place your flowers in the vase and place in a cool room avoiding direct sunlight.
  • Regularly replenish water and flower food.

Peony Rose Plant Care

Peony roses like cool conditions so they grown well in Ireland either as an outdoor potted plant or planted directly into a flower bed. Peony roses are relatively easy to care for but they do require some attention to ensure they thrive.

Watering

Peony roses require regular watering but they don’t like to be over watered. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Depending on the weather you may need to water your peony roses deeply once or twice a week.

Sunlight

Peony roses need plenty of sunlight to thrive so choose a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.

Soil

Peony roses prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like add compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

Fertilising

Peony roses benefit from regular fertilising to promote healthy growth and blooms. Use a balanced fertiliser in the spring and then again after the first flush of blooms has faded.

Pruning

Peony roses require pruning to promote healthy growth and flower development. Cut back dead or damaged stems in the spring and prune back the entire plant after the first frosts in the autumn.

Pink Peony Roses from Dublin florists Blooming Amazing Flower Company

 

Peony Rose Availability in Dublin

Peony roses are very seasonal. As a cut flower they are usually available from our flower shop in Dublin from mid to late April through to mid to late June. Exactly when they come into season really depends on the weather – if it has been a cool spring, they may not be readily available until mid-May but the season can sometimes extend into July.

Uses of Peony Roses

Peony roses are a versatile flower that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are just a few of the ways we use peony roses from our flower shop in Dublin:

Weddings

Peony roses are a very popular choice for weddings and it’s easy to see why. Their beautiful soft blooms add elegance and romance to any wedding ceremony or reception. Peony roses come in a such a variety of colours you can always choose the perfect shade to match your wedding theme.

Gifts

Peony roses make a thoughtful and romantic gift for any occasion. Whether you’re sending them for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, a beautiful hand-tied bouquet of peony roses is sure to make a lasting impression.

Home Decor

Peony roses look beautiful in any home decor setting. Whether you’re using them as a centrepiece for your dining table or displaying them in a vase on your mantle, peony roses are a stylish and sophisticated choice that provide impact.

Peony Rose for Delivery in Dublin

Peony roses really are a beautiful and versatile flower. They have a short blooming season which makes them extra special. They look stunning growing in Dublin gardens in the late spring and early summer months. They also make a fabulous gift for a friend or as a treat for yourself.

When in-season they are available to order as a beautiful hand-tied flower bouquet our website or from our flower shop in Ranelagh. Order online, in-store or in person, to collect or choose our same day Dublin flower delivery service.