Nachtigall peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Nachtigall'
APS Registry
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Sizeup to 2.5 feet tall
- Habit
- Upright
- Bloom season
- Spring
- Bloom color
- Dark red
- Foliage color
- Dark foliage
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Nachtigall' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Nachtigall') 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. Cupped, dark red flowers open late in the season and have a sweet fragrance. The glossy dark foliage turns green after flowering, and the stems stay red. Irmtraud Rieck bred it, and it grows upright to about 28 inches without staking.
Pairs well with Rainbow's End hosta, Cinnamon fern, and Monkshood.