Mary Ellen peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Mary Ellen'
APS Registry
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Sizeup to 3 feet tall
- Habit
- Medium, upright
- Bloom season
- Spring
- Bloom color
- White, blush shading
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Mary Ellen' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Mary Ellen') 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. Alonzo B. Franklin bred it. The large, blush-white flowers are a semi-rose type with big petals and open in late spring. Strong stems hold them up well, and the heavy foliage looks good all season.
Pairs well with Wild bergamot, Sedge, and Spanish bluebell.