Flower of the Month – November 2018

Name: Peony

Other names: Paeony, Peony Rose (Roses as big as cabbages."Is how the explorer Marco Polo described peonies when he saw them for the first time)

Colours: White, soft pink, hot pink

Family: Paeonia Genus: Paeoniaceae

Availability: Late October to December

What’s in a name: The genus name Paeonia is derived from Paion, the physician to the gods in Greek mythology. It is believed Paian used peony roots to heal Hades, god of the underworld, who had been wounded by Heracles. 

Few other flowering garden plants go back in history as far as peonies, which in China have been used and cultivated for over 4000 years. Known for its healing properties throughout the Middle Ages in Greek and Roman history, the peony was held in high esteem as a medicinal plant as well as in ancient times.
The Peony is known to symbolise wealth and honour and has also become the traditional floral symbol of China, the state flower of Indiana and the traditional 12th wedding anniversary flower.

Why we love it: It is said that peonies symbolise success and romance and are also considered a sign of happy marriage and good fortune. Why wouldn't we love them! (And of course they look fantastic!)