Gratis peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Gratis'
APS Registry
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Sizeup to 3 feet tall
- Habit
- Upright
- Bloom season
- Spring
- Bloom color
- Dark red
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Gratis' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Gratis') 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. Glossy, dark red single flowers open in early spring, and each has several rows of petals. The leaves stay dark red nearly to blooming time, and the stiff stems stand upright. William Henry Krekler bred it.
Pairs well with Swamp milkweed, Cinnamon fern, and Kentucky bluegrass.