Paeonia 'Mothers Choice'

Mother’s Choice is a truly elegant peony bundle choice (and a lovely gift idea too). This variety is prized for its large, beautifully formed, fully double blooms in creamy white, often with a soft ivory glow and a gentle, classic peony fragrance. It’s the kind of peony that looks effortlessly “posh” in the border and absolutely stunning in a vase—perfect for cutting gardens, wedding-style arrangements, and anyone who loves a calm, romantic colour palette.

As with all herbaceous peonies, Mother’s Choice is a long-lived perennial. Plant it once in the right place and it will come back year after year, building into a stronger clump and producing more flowers each season. It’s a wonderful addition to an Avon Bulbs & Plants border, pairing beautifully with blues, purples and soft pinks for a timeless late spring display.

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 plants 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—large double 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:
Mother’s Choice is a superb cut flower—pick stems when buds are just starting to open for the longest vase life. And remember: peonies planted too deep can be slow to flower, so keep the buds close to the surface.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

May - June

Height:
30–36" (75–90cm)

Position:
Full sun / light shade

Hardy Perennial