Paeonia lactiflora Miss America is a long-lived herbaceous peony valued for its very large, fragrant, semi-double flowers. Soft blush-pink buds unfold into broad white guard petals around a prominent center of golden-yellow stamens. The flowers rise above a rounded clump of divided dark green foliage in late spring and early summer.
Mature plants form strong, upright mounds that return from the crown each spring and die back completely in autumn. Individual flowers develop at slightly different times, so an established clump can carry tight buds, opening blush flowers, fresh white blooms and softly aging petals together. Large flower heads may benefit from discreet support, especially in exposed positions or after heavy rain.
Grow in deep, fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist but freely drained. Full sun encourages strong flowering, while partial afternoon shade can be useful in warm districts. Set the crown at the correct shallow depth, water consistently during establishment and early growth, and avoid moving mature plants unnecessarily because peonies resent disturbance.
Use Miss America in cottage borders, cutting gardens and sheltered mixed plantings where its white flowers and golden stamens remain the focus. Remove faded flowers, clear dying foliage in autumn and dispose of diseased material. Suitable companions include Iris sibirica, Geranium, Salvia, Nepeta and Carex, chosen in restrained colors that complement rather than compete with the peony display.
