Paeonia 'Red Charm'

Paeonia ‘Red Charm’ is one of the most show-stopping red peonies you can grow. This award-winning variety produces huge, fully double, bomb-style blooms in a rich, velvety crimson-red, often with subtle darker tones towards the centre. The flowers are held on strong, upright stems above lush, glossy green foliage, making it an excellent choice for borders where you want bold, early-season drama without too much staking. It’s also a fantastic cut flower—those big blooms look incredible in a vase and the plants return year after year, building into impressive clumps that get better with every season.

Like all herbaceous peonies, ‘Red Charm’ prefers a sunny spot and well-drained soil, and once settled it’s happiest left undisturbed. Give it a little patience in the first year or two and you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable late spring display that turns heads from across the garden.

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.
• Large blooms can be heavy after rain—add discreet support if needed.
• 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:
Peonies may flower lightly in their first season while they settle in. For the best blooms, make sure Paeonia ‘Red Charm’ is planted at the correct depth—too deep is the most common reason peonies fail to flower.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

May - June

Height:
30–36" (75–90cm)

Position:
Full sun / light shade

Hardy Perennial