Paeonia Lemon Chiffon

Radiant, elegant and truly unforgettable, Paeonia 'Lemon Chiffon' is one of the finest yellow herbaceous peonies ever introduced. Its enormous, semi-double to fully double blooms open in soft primrose-yellow, gradually maturing to creamy ivory as the flowers age. The gently ruffled petals surround a centre of golden stamens, creating a luminous display that lights up the late spring border.

Introduced by the renowned American breeder Don Hollingsworth in 1981, 'Lemon Chiffon' quickly gained international acclaim and was awarded the prestigious American Peony Society Gold Medal in 2000. Its strong stems hold the large blooms beautifully without the need for staking, while the attractive deep green foliage provides excellent structure throughout the growing season.

Flowering in late spring, the lightly fragrant blooms make outstanding cut flowers, lasting exceptionally well in the vase. Their soft buttery tones blend effortlessly with whites, blues and pastel pinks, making 'Lemon Chiffon' an exceptional choice for cottage gardens, mixed borders and elegant floral arrangements.

Exceptionally hardy and remarkably long-lived, this outstanding peony becomes increasingly floriferous with age, rewarding gardeners with spectacular displays for decades.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Paeonia 'Lemon Chiffon' from autumn through to spring, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen or waterlogged. Autumn planting gives the 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 perform best when planted in a permanent position where they can remain undisturbed for many years.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant with the crown buds no deeper than 2–3cm (1 inch) below the soil surface. Planting too deeply may prevent flowering.
• Spacing: Allow 75–90cm (30–36 inches) between plants.
• Soil Prep: Improve the planting area with garden compost or well-rotted manure to encourage healthy root development.

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

Aftercare Tips:

• Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser.
• Remove faded flowers after blooming.
• Cut stems back to ground level once the foliage has naturally died back in autumn.
• Leave plants undisturbed wherever possible, as flowering improves significantly with age.

Top Tip:
'Lemon Chiffon' looks spectacular planted alongside purple Alliums, blue Delphiniums or white Irises, where its soft yellow flowers provide a beautiful contrast. The strong stems also make it one of the finest peonies for cutting.

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

American Peony Society Gold Medal Winner