Paeonia Alertie

Elegant, fragrant and wonderfully free-flowering, Paeonia 'Alertie' is a much-loved heirloom peony that has delighted gardeners for over a century. Introduced in France in 1905 by Crousse, this superb early-flowering variety is renowned for its large, semi-double blooms in the softest shell pink, fading gracefully to almost pure white as the flowers mature.

At the heart of each bloom sits a striking cluster of golden-yellow stamens, creating a beautiful contrast against the delicate petals while providing an excellent source of nectar for bees and other pollinating insects. The lightly fragrant flowers are held above strong stems and are complemented by attractive, deep green foliage that remains a handsome feature in the garden long after flowering.

Flowering in late spring to early summer, 'Alertie' makes an outstanding addition to mixed borders, cottage gardens and cutting gardens. Its elegant blooms are also highly prized for floral arrangements, bringing timeless beauty and a delicate perfume indoors.

Exceptionally hardy and long-lived, a well-established peony can thrive for decades with very little maintenance, becoming more floriferous each year. Paeonia 'Alertie' is a wonderful investment, rewarding gardeners with spectacular displays for generations.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Paeonia 'Alertie' from autumn through to spring, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen or waterlogged. Autumn planting gives roots the longest time to establish before flowering.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or light partial shade with fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Peonies dislike being moved once established, so choose their permanent position carefully.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant with the crown buds no more than 2–3 cm (1 inch) below the soil surface. Planting too deeply can reduce flowering.
• Spacing: Allow approximately 75–90 cm (30–36 inches) between plants.
• Soil Prep: Improve the planting area with garden compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil evenly moist during the first growing season. Once established, peonies are relatively drought tolerant but benefit from watering during prolonged dry periods.

Aftercare Tips:

• Apply a balanced fertiliser each spring.
• Deadhead spent flowers to keep plants looking tidy.
• Cut stems back to ground level after the foliage has died back naturally in autumn.
• Avoid disturbing established plants, as peonies often improve with age.

Top Tip:
Plant where the blooms can catch the morning sun. The soft pink flowers pair beautifully with purple salvias, Nepeta and hardy geraniums for a classic cottage garden display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

May – June (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
28–36" (70–90cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or light partial shade

Hardy Perennial

Bee & Pollinator Friendly