Paeonia Bridal Shower

Graceful, elegant and wonderfully romantic, Paeonia 'Bridal Shower' is a breathtaking herbaceous peony, producing exquisite bomb-shaped, rose-like blooms of pure white. Each luxurious flower is filled with layers of delicately ruffled petals, surrounding a soft collar of creamy-yellow petaloids that adds warmth and depth to its bridal-white blooms.

Introduced by the renowned American breeder Don Hollingsworth in 1991, 'Bridal Shower' has quickly earned a reputation as one of the finest white peonies available. Its lightly fragrant flowers are carried on strong, upright stems, making it an exceptional choice for both the garden and the vase. The pristine blooms are highly sought after by florists and are a favourite for wedding bouquets, where their timeless beauty perfectly reflects the variety's name.

Flowering from late spring into early summer, the elegant blooms are complemented by handsome, glossy green foliage that remains attractive throughout the growing season. The partially open centres provide a valuable source of pollen for bees and other beneficial insects during the early stages of flowering.

Like all herbaceous peonies, 'Bridal Shower' is remarkably long-lived, becoming more floriferous with each passing year. Given a sunny position and left undisturbed, it will reward gardeners with spectacular displays for decades.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Paeonia 'Bridal Shower' from autumn through to spring, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen or waterlogged. Autumn planting allows the roots to establish before the following growing season.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or light partial shade with fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Peonies prefer a permanent position where they can remain undisturbed for many years.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant with the crown buds no more than 2–3 cm (1 inch) below the soil surface. Planting too deeply may prevent 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, plants are relatively drought tolerant but appreciate watering during prolonged dry spells.

Aftercare Tips:

• Feed each spring with a balanced fertiliser.
• Deadhead spent flowers to keep the plant looking its best.
• Cut stems back to ground level once the foliage has naturally died back in autumn.
• Avoid disturbing established plants, as flowering improves significantly with age.

Top Tip:
'Bridal Shower' pairs beautifully with soft pastel roses, foxgloves and lavender, creating an elegant cottage garden display. Its pristine white blooms are also exceptional for cutting and long-lasting floral arrangements.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
May – June (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
32–36" (80–90cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or light partial shade

Hardy Perennial

Lightly Fragrant

Bee & Pollinator Friendly