Paeonia ‘Karl Rosenfield‘

Paeonia ‘Karl Rosenfield’ is a classic, much-admired peony with big, fully double blooms in a rich, velvety crimson-red that really stands out in the late spring to early summer garden. The flowers are packed with ruffled petals and often carry a light, sweet fragrance, making them just as good in a vase as they are in the border. Against the lush, deep green foliage, the colour is simply spectacular—especially when planted in groups or paired with softer pinks, whites and silvery foliage.

A hardy, long-lived perennial, ‘Karl Rosenfield’ forms a handsome clump that returns year after year, increasing in flower power as it matures. It’s ideal for cottage gardens, mixed borders and cutting gardens, and it’s a brilliant “anchor plant” that gives structure from spring onwards. Like all peonies, it prefers to be planted once and left to settle—give it sunshine, good drainage and a little patience, and it will reward you for decades.

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 dramatic colour impact, plant ‘Karl Rosenfield’ near paler peonies or soft pastel perennials. For the best cut flowers, pick stems as buds soften and begin to open.

Plant Details

Flowering Period: May - June

Height: 30–36" (75–90cm)

Position: Full sun / light shade

Hardy Perennial