Paeonia lactiflora ‘Bowl of Beauty‘

Peony ‘Bowl of Beauty’ is a real showstopper—one of those plants that makes people stop mid-walk to ask what it is. In late spring to early summer it produces huge, fragrant blooms with vivid cerise-pink outer petals surrounding a dramatic, ruffled centre of creamy lemon-white staminodes, creating that unmistakable “bowl” effect. The flowers are carried on strong stems above lush, deep green foliage, forming a handsome clump that looks good from spring right through to autumn.

This is a hardy, long-lived perennial that will happily thrive for decades once settled, becoming more generous with flowers each year. It’s perfect for mixed borders and cottage gardens, and it also works beautifully in more contemporary schemes where you want bold structure and colour. ‘Bowl of Beauty’ is excellent for pollinators when in bloom, and the flowers make superb cut blooms for vases—cut a few stems as the buds soften for the longest-lasting display indoors.

Peonies like a little patience: they often take a season or two to truly establish, but once they do, the rewards are spectacular. Plant it in a sunny spot with fertile, well-drained soil and give it space to mature. Avoid planting too deeply and try not to disturb it once it’s happy—this is very much a “plant it and love it for years” perennial.

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 vase life, cut stems when the buds feel like a soft marshmallow and are just starting to open. Change vase water regularly to keep blooms looking fresh.

Plant Details

Flowering Period: May - June

Height: 30–36" (75–90cm)

Position: Full sun / light shade

Hardy Perennial