A herbaceous perennial with finely cut dark green foliage and scented single white flowers with crinkled/folded edge and a cluster golden yellow stamens in the centre Any fertile, moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade and in any sheltered position. H:75cm

Peonies produce their extravagant display in early June every year, regardless of weather, because they are among the most durable and longest-lived plants. They have no natural enemies, no exacting cultural requirements beyond full sun and good sweet soil, and they shrug off cold. After bloom is complete, you are left with a handsome mound of glossy, deep green foliage that will happily anchor the next sequence of flowers in the border. Finally, Peonies make superior cut flowers, lasting more than a week if cut in full bud.

We ship large roots that are fresh from the growing fields. While a newly planted Peony seldom makes a first-class show in its first season, these vigorous plants will reach the top of their form in their second or third year and will then last for generations.