Elma peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Elma'
APS Registry
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Sizeup to 3 feet tall
- Bloom season
- Spring
- Bloom color
- Light pink, ages to white
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Elma' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Elma') 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. Fragrant flowers open light pink in early to mid spring and age to white. The cupped, crimped guard petals hold their shape until the bloom fades, and the long yellow staminodes stand out. Ernest Flint Kelsey bred it.
Pairs well with Compass plant, Royal fern, Spanish bluebell, and Limeglow creeping juniper.