Paeonia Madame Calot

A true classic of the peony world, Paeonia 'Madame Calot' has been enchanting gardeners since its introduction in 1856 by the celebrated French breeder Jacques Calot. One of the oldest herbaceous peonies still widely grown today, this heirloom variety is prized for its enormous, fragrant blooms and exceptional garden performance.

The large, fully double flowers open from blush-pink buds into sumptuous blooms of soft shell pink, delicately flushed with creamy white and highlighted with subtle crimson flecks at the heart. As the flowers mature, they gradually fade to a beautiful porcelain-white, giving the plant a succession of gentle pastel shades throughout its flowering season.

Wonderfully fragrant and carried on sturdy stems above lush, deep green foliage, 'Madame Calot' is a superb choice for herbaceous borders, cottage gardens and cutting gardens. The luxurious blooms are highly sought after for floral arrangements, filling both the garden and the home with their delightful perfume.

Exceptionally hardy and remarkably long-lived, this heritage peony becomes increasingly floriferous with age. Given a sunny position and left undisturbed, Paeonia 'Madame Calot' will reward gardeners with breathtaking displays for generations, making it one of the finest investment plants for any perennial border.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

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

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 strong root development and healthy growth.

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

Aftercare Tips:

• Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser.
• Remove faded flowers after blooming to keep the plant looking tidy.
• Cut stems back to ground level once the foliage has naturally died back in autumn.
• Avoid moving established plants, as peonies become more floriferous with age.

Top Tip:
The softly coloured blooms of 'Madame Calot' pair beautifully with lavender, Nepeta, Delphiniums and white Foxgloves, creating a romantic cottage garden display. Its wonderfully fragrant flowers are also exceptional 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

Highly Fragrant

Bee & Pollinator Friendly