Paeonia ‘Duchesse de Nemours‘

A true classic and one of the most loved white peonies, ‘Duchesse de Nemours’ is famed for its beautifully formed, fully double blooms and delicious fragrance. The large flowers open from creamy lemon buds into sumptuous, ivory-white rosettes with a soft satin sheen, sitting proudly above lush, deep green foliage. Flowering in late spring to early summer, it brings a real sense of elegance to borders and makes a spectacular focal point when planted in generous clumps.

This is a long-lived, hardy perennial that will happily settle in and improve year after year, producing more stems and blooms as it matures. It’s ideal for mixed borders and cottage gardens, and it’s also a superb choice for a dedicated cutting garden—those richly scented flowers are wonderful in vases and bridal-style arrangements. As with all peonies, it likes to be left undisturbed once planted, and it rewards a sunny position, good drainage and a little patience while it establishes.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant peonies in autumn for the best establishment, or in spring if needed, while the soil is workable and not waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position (light shade is tolerated) with fertile, well-drained soil. Peonies dislike sitting in wet ground, especially over winter. Ideal for mixed borders, cottage gardens and cutting gardens.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the buds (eyes) are only 2–5 cm below the soil surface. Planting too deep can reduce flowering.
• Spacing: Space plants about 75–100 cm (30–40 inches) apart to allow room for a mature clump.
• Soil Prep: Enrich the planting hole with well-rotted compost and a handful of bonemeal (optional). Avoid fresh manure.

Watering:
Water well after planting. Keep watered during dry spells in the first growing season. Once established, peonies are fairly drought tolerant but benefit from watering in prolonged dry periods.

Aftercare Tips:

• Support stems with a plant ring if your site is exposed or flowers are very heavy.
• Deadhead spent blooms to keep the plant tidy.
• In autumn, cut back foliage to ground level and remove it to reduce disease carry-over.
• Avoid moving peonies once established—disturbance can delay flowering.

Top Tip:
For the best white blooms, give ‘Duchesse de Nemours’ plenty of sun and good airflow. Cut flowers when buds are soft and just starting to open for the longest vase life.

Plant Details

Flowering Period: May - June

Height: 30–36" (75–90cm)

Position: Full sun / light shade

Hardy Perennial