Obsidian peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Obsidian'
APS Registry
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Sizeup to 4 feet tall
- Habit
- Tall
- Bloom color
- Dark red or maroon, black shading
- Foliage color
- Dark foliage
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Obsidian' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Obsidian') 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 fragrant, dark red blooms have black shading, with three buds on each stem. The shiny reddish foliage looks good until bloom time. Irmtraud Rieck bred it, and the name alludes to black volcanic glass.
Pairs well with Sweet William, Black Parrot tulip, and Sensitive fern.