Tarawa peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Tarawa'
APS Registry
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds moderate soil
- Habit
- Medium
- Bloom season
- Spring
- Bloom color
- Red
- Soil types
- Loam
Garden uses
Notes
'Tarawa' peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Tarawa') 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. Eugene H. Lins bred it. The red blooms open in early to mid spring and look like a pure red Japanese type at first. The petaloids then grow into a big red bomb, and the strong stems hold the flowers up well.
Pairs well with Miss Kim lilac, Western sword fern, Carnaval De Nice tulip, and Invincibelle Ruby smooth hydrangea.