Van Engelen Peony Collection

These peonies are best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8. If you live in a zone warmer than 8, these varieties may struggle to receive the necessary winter chill hours required to bloom properly.

Because double-flowering peonies produce large, heavy blooms, they can sometimes droop after heavy rain or wind. While not strictly required, using peony hoops or supports early in the spring is recommended to keep the stems upright and the flowers display-ready.

Peonies are best planted in the fall, which allows the roots to establish themselves before the ground freezes and the plants break dormancy in the spring. Spring planting is generally discouraged as it often results in poor root development and a lack of blooms for the first year.

Peonies grow into substantial, long-lived shrubs. You should space each bulb at least 3 feet apart to ensure adequate airflow, which helps prevent fungal issues and allows the plants to reach their full, mature size.

It is common for peonies to take a season or two to fully establish their root systems. While you might see a few blooms the first spring, they typically reach their peak flowering potential by the second or third year.

Yes, peonies are generally unpalatable to deer and rabbits, making them an excellent choice for gardens where wildlife pressure is a concern. While no plant is 100% deer-proof, these are widely considered a reliable, low-risk option.