Paeonia 'Sarah Bernhardt‘

Paeonia ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ is one of the most famous and best-loved peonies of all time—and it’s easy to see why. This classic herbaceous peony produces huge, fully double blooms in soft, romantic blush-pink, often with deeper pink flecks and beautifully ruffled petals. The flowers are wonderfully fragrant and look spectacular in the garden and in a vase, making it a firm favourite for borders, cutting gardens and wedding-style arrangements.

Its fresh green foliage forms a neat, bushy mound that stays attractive for months after flowering, helping to fill out the border even once the blooms have finished. Like all peonies, it’s a long-lived perennial that prefers to be left undisturbed once planted—settle it in properly and it can reward you with years (even decades) of glorious late spring and early summer flowers.

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.
• Support stems if needed—large double flowers 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:
For the best vase life, cut peony stems when the buds feel like a soft “marshmallow” and are just starting to open. And remember—planting depth matters: peonies that are planted too deep can be slow to flower.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

May - June

Height:
30–36" (75–90cm)

Position:
Full sun / light shade

Hardy Perennial