Paeonia Lady Alexandra Duff

Elegant, timeless and steeped in British history, Paeonia 'Lady Alexandra Duff' is a superb heirloom herbaceous peony, treasured for its large, semi-double blooms in delicate blush pink that gradually soften to creamy white as they mature. At the heart of each flower, a cluster of golden-yellow stamens creates a beautiful contrast, adding both charm and valuable pollen for early pollinating insects.

Raised by the renowned British nurseryman Kelway in 1902, this historic variety was named after Lady Alexandra Duff, granddaughter of King Edward VII. More than a century later, it remains one of the finest heritage peonies, admired for its graceful flowers, excellent garden performance and delicate fragrance.

Flowering in late spring to early summer, the blooms are held on sturdy stems above handsome, deeply divided green foliage that remains attractive throughout the season. Their elegant form makes them equally suited to cottage gardens, herbaceous borders and cutting gardens, where they provide long-lasting flowers for the vase.

Exceptionally hardy and remarkably long-lived, 'Lady Alexandra Duff' becomes increasingly floriferous as it matures and can remain undisturbed for decades, rewarding gardeners with spectacular displays every spring.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Paeonia 'Lady Alexandra Duff' 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 sunny or lightly shaded position with fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Peonies dislike being disturbed once established, so choose a permanent planting position.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant with the crown buds no deeper than 2–3cm (1 inch) below the soil surface. Planting too deeply can prevent flowering.
• Spacing: Allow 75–90cm (30–36 inches) between plants.
• Soil Prep: Dig in plenty of garden compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve fertility and drainage.

Watering:
Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil evenly moist during the first growing season. Established plants usually only require watering during prolonged dry periods.

Aftercare Tips:

• Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser.
• Remove faded flowers to keep plants tidy.
• Cut stems back to ground level once the foliage has naturally died back in autumn.
• Avoid moving established plants as they improve with age and flower more prolifically each year.

Top Tip:
The delicate blush flowers look exquisite planted alongside blue Delphiniums, white Foxgloves and Nepeta, creating a classic English cottage garden display while attracting bees and other pollinators.

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

Lightly Fragrant

Bee & Pollinator Friendly