Black Joke peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Black Joke'
APS Registry
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
- Habit
- Upright
- Bloom season
- Spring
- Bloom color
- An amaranth-cherry color
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Black Joke' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Black Joke') is a perennial for borders, cut flower use, 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. Single, fragrant flowers open in late spring and look deep pink in sun but dark purple in shade. The foliage emerges purple and the stems are red. The upright plants reach about 80 cm (32") and need no support.
Pairs well with Switchgrass, Ageratum, and Black chokeberry.