Paeonia 'Alexandra Duff'

Paeonia ‘Alexandra Duff’ is a beautifully romantic peony with large, softly ruffled blooms in delicate blush-pink, often opening from deeper pink buds and fading paler as the flowers mature. Many blooms show a charming scattering of darker pink flecks towards the centre, giving each flower a slightly individual look. Lightly fragrant and wonderfully elegant, it’s a perfect choice for mixed borders and cutting gardens, where it brings that classic, cottage-garden peony feel in late spring and early summer. The fresh green foliage forms a neat mound and stays attractive for the rest of the season, adding structure even after flowering has finished.

Like all herbaceous peonies, ‘Alexandra Duff’ is long-lived and improves year after year. Give it the right position and correct planting depth, and it can reward you with decades of spectacular blooms.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant bare root peonies in autumn (best) or through to early spring, while dormant. Avoid planting when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position (or light shade) with fertile, well-drained soil. Peonies dislike sitting in wet ground and prefer to be left undisturbed once established. Ideal for mixed borders, cottage gardens and cutting gardens.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the ‘eyes’ (buds) sit just 2–3 cm below the soil surface. Planting too deep can reduce flowering.
• Spacing: Space 80–100 cm (32–40 inches) apart to allow good air circulation and room to mature.
• Soil Prep: Dig a generous hole and mix in well-rotted compost or manure. In heavy soils, add grit to improve drainage.

Watering:
Water well after planting. Keep the soil lightly moist while establishing, then water only during prolonged dry spells. Avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.

Aftercare Tips:

• Mulch in spring with compost, keeping it away from the crown.
• Support stems if needed—peony blooms can be heavy after rain.
• Deadhead after flowering, but leave the foliage to feed the plant for next year.
• Cut back foliage in autumn once it dies down and dispose of it to keep plants healthy.

Top Tip:
For the best display, plant Paeonia ‘Alexandra Duff’ where it can stay put—peonies dislike being moved. And remember: if buds are planted too deep, flowering can be delayed, so keep them close to the surface.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

May - June

Height:
30–36" (75–90cm)

Position:
Full sun / light shade

Hardy Perennial