Ball o’ Cotton peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Ball o Cotton'

PerennialPaeoniaceae

APS Registry

Ball o’ Cotton peony
Fragrant
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Bloom season
Spring
Soil types
Loam

Garden uses

BorderCut flowerPerennial bed

Notes

'Ball o’ Cotton' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Ball o’ Cotton') is a perennial for borders, cut flowers, and perennial beds. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun, average moisture, and loamy soil. Large white double blooms open in late spring and have a mild, sweet fragrance. The petals form a compact ball first, then the outer petals unfold to show a rose-like center. Strong stems hold the flowers well.

Pairs well with Minuteman hosta, Royal fern, Pink Impression tulip, and Arrowwood viburnum.