The peony has been cultivated for more than 2,000 years. It has great importance in Chinese culture and peony motifs are found in Chinese art and wood carvings.
There are many varieties of peonies some have several rings of petals and some including double pinks have a beautiful fragrance. Colours include white, light and dark pink, red and dark maroon.
Peonies open once they are cut. Look for petals that are just starting to open and have not been bruised or damaged. Cut a minimum of 2cm off the stem, strip the bottom leaves off, and put in cold water with a flower preservative. Change water daily for optimum lifespan.
Peonies are only available for a short time in spring.