Key Features

• Growth Habit:
  • Upright, clump-forming herbaceous perennial
  • Typically grows 30–36 inches tall and 24–36 inches wide
  • Strong stems support large, fully double blooms
• Bloom Color:
  • Pure white double flowers with occasional crimson-red flecks near the center
• Fragrance:
  • Strong, sweet floral fragrance
• Fruit Flavor:
  • Not grown for edible fruit production
• Culinary Uses:
  • No significant culinary uses
• Medicinal & Traditional Uses:
  • Primarily cultivated as an ornamental perennial
  • Traditional peony species have a long history of use in herbal medicine, although ornamental cultivars are grown mainly for landscape beauty and cut flowers
• Wildlife Attraction & Pest Resistance:
  • Attracts bees and other pollinators during bloom season
  • Deer resistant
  • Rabbit resistant
  • Generally resistant to pests and diseases once established
• Planting Zones: USDA Zones 3–8
• Sun Preferences:
  • Full sun to light partial shade
  • Best flowering occurs with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Drought Tolerance:
  • Moderate once established

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Planting Instructions (From a Bareroot into the Ground)

1. Choose the Location

• Select a location with fertile, well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
• Avoid areas where water collects after heavy rain.

2. Prepare the Soil

• Loosen soil 12–18 inches deep.
• Mix compost or aged organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage.

3. Prepare the Bareroot

• Inspect the bareroot and locate the visible growth buds ("eyes").
• If the roots appear dry, soak the bareroot in water for 1–2 hours before planting.

4. Dig the Planting Hole

• Dig a wide planting hole and create a small mound of soil in the center.

5. Position the Root

• Spread the roots evenly over the mound.
• Position the eyes facing upward.
• Cover so the eyes sit no deeper than 1–2 inches below the finished soil surface. Planting deeper may reduce flowering.

6. Backfill and Water

• Fill the hole with soil and gently firm around the roots.
• Water thoroughly to settle the soil.

7. Mulch

• Apply a light layer of mulch around the planting area, keeping it away from the crown.

8. Spacing

• Space plants 30–36 inches apart to allow for mature growth and proper air circulation.

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Overwintering Festiva Maxima Peony

In-Ground Plants

• Fully hardy throughout USDA Zones 3–8.
• Foliage naturally dies back after the first hard frost.
• Cut stems back to 1–2 inches above ground level in late fall.

Winter Care Tips

• Apply a light layer of mulch after the ground freezes, especially in colder climates.
• Remove excess mulch in early spring before new shoots emerge.
• Ensure good drainage throughout winter to prevent crown rot.
• Avoid disturbing established plants, as peonies often bloom best when left undisturbed for many years.

Newly Planted Bareroots

• First-year plants typically focus on developing a strong root system.
• Bloom production usually improves significantly during the second and third growing seasons.

Container-Grown Plants

• If grown in containers, move them to a sheltered location during winter.
• Protect roots from repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
• Water sparingly while the plant is dormant.

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Festiva Maxima Peony is one of the world's most treasured heirloom peonies, admired for its enormous fragrant white blooms accented with crimson flecks and its remarkable longevity. With its elegant flowers, exceptional cut flower quality, and dependable performance, this classic variety remains a favorite for perennial borders, cottage gardens, and heirloom landscapes, providing breathtaking beauty for generations.