Rita peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Rita'

PerennialPaeoniaceae

APS Registry

Rita peony
Fragrant
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Bloom season
Spring
Soil types
Loam

Garden uses

BorderCut flowerPerennial bed

Notes

'Rita' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Rita') 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 large, double flowers open flat and saucer-like in late spring, then turn rounder and show their stamens. They are dark rose-pink outside and flesh-pink within, with red marks on some center petals. The blooms are fairly fragrant.

Pairs well with Blazing star, Love-in-a-mist, Sensitive fern, and Hollyhock.