Mark Twain peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Mark Twain'
APS Registry
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
- Habit
- Tall, upright
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Crimson, silver(y) highlights
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Mark Twain' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Mark Twain') 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. The double crimson blooms have a metallic sheen and loosely packed, outspread petals. Tall, upright plants carry them on good stems. Alonzo B. Franklin bred it.
Pairs well with Carlton daffodil, Sensitive fern, and Blonde Ambition blue grama.