25 Gorgeous Peony Varieties to Brighten Your Garden

Did you hear about the gardener who couldn’t stop talking about peonies? They just couldn’t contain their bloom-ing excitement! Jokes aside, peonies are some of the most delightful flowers you can plant in your garden. These stunning blooms are cherished for their vibrant colors, lush petals, and the ability to transform any outdoor space into a haven of beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting your hands dirty, discovering the perfect peony variety can feel like finding the holy grail of gardening.

In this blog, we’ll explore 25 gorgeous peony varieties to bring both charm and vibrance to your garden. We’ll also sprinkle in tips on peony care, garden design ideas, and real-world examples to inspire your green thumb. Get ready to meet the VIPs of the flower world!

1. Sarah Bernhardt Peony

Named after the famous actress, this variety boasts delicate, pink double blossoms. It’s a classic for any traditional garden design and is perfect for bridal bouquets.

Peony Care Tip:

Ensure this fragrant variety has at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for a robust bloom each season.

2. Coral Charm

Known for its striking, coral-pink petals, this bold early bloomer is ideal for making a statement in garden beds. It transitions to yellow as it matures, creating a dynamic display.

3. Festiva Maxima

Brighten shaded areas of your garden with the fast-growing Festiva Maxima. Its large, white flowers with flecks of crimson are a gardener’s dream.

4. Yellow Crown 

If you’re craving variety, try Yellow Crown, a rare yellow peony. Perfect for complementing softer floral choices like creamy whites or lavender tones.

Real-Life Example:

Landscaper Lori combines Yellow Crown and lavender hydrangeas, creating sunlit garden designs that clients adore.

5. Bowl of Beauty

This charming Japanese-style bloom features magenta petals with a creamy white center. It’s perfect for standalone plantings or attracting pollinators.

6. Paeonia Lactiflora

This variety’s fragrant white blooms with a buttery center are a versatile addition to borders, patios, or sunny balconies.

7. Pink Hawaiian Coral

Enjoy brilliant coral-pink blooms that transition into softer pastel shades as the season progresses. Pair with ornamental grasses for a modern twist.

8. Shirley Temple Peony

Named after the beloved star, these soft pink blossoms evoke an endearing simplicity. They’re excellent for beginner gardeners looking for low-maintenance beauty.

9. Red Charm

This bold, red double-flowered peony variety offers extreme visual impact. Pair it with white daffodils in early spring arrangements.

Peony Care Tip:

To maintain their vibrant hue, plant Red Charm in areas with partial shade during the hottest parts of the day.

10. Bartzella Peony

This hybrid peony impresses with large, lemon-yellow blooms and subtle citrus fragrances, offering elegance in every petal.

11. Duchess de Nemours

Considered royalty in the peony world, the Duchess features snowy white blooms that exude elegance matched only by their soft scent.

12. Karl Rosenfield

For striking contrast, its deep crimson flowers will add rich depth to monochromatic or multicolor designs.

13. Raspberry Sundae

This dessert-themed bloom combines pale pinks and creamy tones, looking good enough to eat! It’s often the centerpiece of cottage gardens.

14. Sorbet Peony

These layered blossoms exhibit alternating layers of pink, white, and cream petals. They’re best for romantic or vintage-themed gardens.

15. Garden Treasure

True to its name, this hybrid captures attention with bright yellow petals rimmed with vibrant red edges.

16. Green Halo

Bring an avant-garde touch to your garden. This unusual variety features ruffly green petals for a unique display.

17. Moonstone

Named after the gemstone, its pastel blooms shimmer in light, giving an ethereal quality to evening gardens.

18. Pink Parfait

Double-light pink petals with peach undertones, this variety brightens borders and window boxes alike.

19. Pillow Talk

Perfect for floral arrangements, its soft pink, cushion-like blooms combine beauty and aroma seamlessly.

20. Command Performance

Attracting attention, these massive blooms in fiery red-orange hues captivate onlookers instantly.

21. Top Brass

This peony features zesty yellow centers framed by white and soft pink outer petals—a lively addition to wildflower fields.

Case Study:

Community gardener Emma nurtured Top Brass alongside wild daisies to attract beneficial bees in her urban garden.

22. Etched Salmon

Known for its coral salmon hues, this award-winning variety thrives as a functional beauty in natural fences.

23. Sunny Girl

This semi-double yellow variety thrives in temperate climates and adds cheer to north-facing gardens.

24. Big Ben

Vibrant red double blooms make Big Ben a popular choice for elevating backyard landscapes.

25. Candy Stripe

A playful addition to any garden, Candy Stripe features pink-and-white striped flowers, offering bold textures and playful charm.

Garden Design Tip:

Group Candy Stripe with white lilacs for a coordinated vintage aesthetic.

Peony FAQs

1. When is the best time to plant peonies?

Plant peonies in the fall to establish strong roots before spring growth begins.

2. How much water do peonies need?

Water thoroughly after planting, then aim for around 1 inch per week during the growing season.

3. Why aren’t my peonies blooming?

Check for over-fertilization or planting too deeply—both common causes for bloom failures.

4. Can peonies grow in containers?

Yes, dwarf varieties like Sunny Girl work well in pots, provided there’s adequate sunlight and drainage.

5. How long do peony plants live?

Peonies can thrive for over 50 years with proper care, making them a lifetime investment for your garden.

Bringing It All Together

With these 25 gorgeous peony varieties, your garden can become a visual symphony of color and elegance. Whether you love subtle pastels, bold reds, or exotic yellow blooms, there’s a peony variety waiting to bring its unique charm. Remember, proper plant care and thoughtful garden design ensure these flowers continue to delight for years to come.

Happy gardening—and may your blooms forever brighten your days!