Peony ‘Jan Van Leeuwen’

Product Details

On a visit to the Netherlands, our Director of Horticulture saw Herbaceous Peony ‘Jan van Leeuwen’ growing in the fields. Despite a heavy downpour, the plants remained noticeably upright. He later said the plant is “the most reliably sturdy Peony I’ve seen.” The very strong stems of this compact Japanese Peony hold aloft the elegant blooms, each made up of a creamy white circle of outer (guard) petals surrounding a central cluster of glowing, buttery yellow modified stamens (staminodes). On a cloudy day in the Netherlands (and in your garden), these flowers will glow like beacons. Introduced in 1928. Late.

Peonies produce their extravagant display in early June every year, regardless of weather, because they are among the most durable and longest-lived plants. They have no natural enemies, no exacting cultural requirements beyond full sun and neutral to slightly sweet soil, and they shrug off cold. After bloom is complete, you are left with a handsome mound of glossy, deep green foliage that will happily anchor the next sequence of bloom in the neighborhood. Finally, Peonies make superior cut flowers, lasting more than a week if cut in full bud.

We ship large roots with 3 to 5 eyes that are fresh from the growing fields. While a newly planted Peony seldom makes a first-class show in its first season, these vigorous plants will reach the top of their form in their second or third year. Southern gardeners should provide afternoon shade.

For more information on growing Peonies, click on Growing Guide.