Lord Kitchener peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Lord Kitchener'
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
- Cherry-red or cerise
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Lord Kitchener' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Lord Kitchener') 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. Léon Renault bred it in 1916. The double cherry-red flowers open in early to late spring. It is the earliest of the Chinese peonies to bloom, and it lasts well as a cut flower.
Pairs well with Queen of Night tulip, Sensitive fern, and Foxtail barley.