Considered by many to be the true royalty among garden plants, peonies have blooms that can take your breath away. The peony is an exceptional plant, as it is the only genus belonging to the Paeoniaceae family. Native to Asia, Europe, and western North America, the number of peony species could reach 40, but for now, scientists have only reached a consensus on about 33 peony species. So, there's definitely more to learn about them.

Although short-lived, typically blooming for only 7 to 10 days, they have become popular garden plants in temperate regions. In late spring and early summer, they are also often sold as cut flowers. The love for peonies is undeniable. From planting peonies to caring for peonies, there are many floral facts you should know before peony season arrives.

1. Peonies Make The Best Bouquets

Peonies are often considered the symbol of good fortune and a happy marriage. So, fill your bouquets and floral arrangements, immediately.

2. Peonies Were Initially Grown For Medicinal Purposes.

3. Peony petals are edible.

In China, the petals are blanched and sweetened to be used as a delicacy at tea time, in summer salads, or as a garnish for delicious punches and lemonades.

4. Perfect peonies require perfect planting

While herbaceous peonies require fall planting, tree peonies can be planted in fall or spring.

5. Peonies attract ants

But don't worry! This is more a blessing than a curse because ants actually play an important role in helping peonies bloom. The insects are attracted to the sweet nectar found inside peony buds; when they climb inside the buds, they help them open. Also, ants help keep other (harmful) insects away.

6. Live a long life

When cared for properly and kept in optimal conditions, a peony plant can live a long life. It can even stay for over 100 years.

7. Growing peonies requires patience.

Just as Rome wasn't built in a day, these beautiful flowers take a few years to bloom. Herbaceous peonies typically do not bloom the first year they are planted. Unfortunately, tree peonies take two or three more years to bloom.

8. When cutting peony flowers, cut them sparingly.

It's easy to get carried away by these precious flowers, but when you cut them, make sure to leave at least three buds on each stem you cut. Do not remove more than half of the flowers from any cluster, as this will severely damage food reserves.

9. Peonies bloom in all colors.

Except for blue

10. Peonies in Chinese culture

The peony is native to China. There, they are highly valued and called the "king of flowers," symbolizing honor, wealth, and prosperity. The Chinese believe that the peony brings good luck and also believe that the peony is a symbol of friendship and feminine beauty. In Japan, the peony symbolizes wealth, honor, good luck, and bravery. In Europe, these flowers are widely cultivated for their fragrance.