Paeonia lactiflora Kansas forms a durable, upright clump of dark green divided foliage, typically reaching 80 to 90 centimeters in height and 60 to 90 centimeters in spread. Strong stems carry very large, fragrant, fully double flowers in late spring and early summer. Their densely layered watermelon-red to carmine-pink petals hold their intense color well and make an impressive garden or cut-flower display.
Grow it in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered border with deep, fertile, humus-rich soil that remains moist but drains freely. Avoid planting the crown too deeply, because the eyes must remain just below the soil surface for reliable flowering. Water during establishment and dry periods, but do not leave the roots waterlogged. Established clumps are long-lived and prefer not to be moved.
Deadhead after flowering and leave the foliage to feed the crown until it dies naturally in autumn, then cut all stems to the ground and remove the debris. Divide only when necessary in autumn or early spring. The plant may need discreet support in exposed sites or after heavy rain. All parts may cause stomach discomfort if eaten, and contact may irritate pets’ skin.
