A beautiful old-fashioned peony with fragrant creamy-white blooms

Paeonia ‘Madame de Verneville’ is a wonderful heritage variety that has retained its popularity for generations – and it is easy to see why.

Its large, fully double flowers are creamy white, with the central petals sometimes showing delicate crimson or rosy markings. The effect is wonderfully romantic, particularly as the tightly packed buds gradually unfold into large, ruffled blooms.

Adding to its appeal is its lovely fragrance. ‘Madame de Verneville’ is an excellent peony to plant where you can enjoy its perfume and is particularly valuable for cutting and bringing indoors.

The foliage forms a handsome green clump that provides an excellent backdrop to the flowers and remains attractive after flowering has finished.

This is a true cottage-garden classic and, once established, can continue flowering for many years.

Why We Chose It

‘Madame de Verneville’ has everything we look for in a traditional peony – beautiful colouring, huge double flowers, fragrance and a long garden history. A lovely variety for anyone who appreciates classic plants.

Growing Paeonia ‘Madame de Verneville’

Position: Full sun or light shade
Soil: Fertile, moisture-retentive but freely drained soil
Height: Approx. 80–90 cm
Spread: Approx. 75–90 cm
Flowering: May–June
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Fragrant: Yes
Suitable for cutting: Excellent

Prepare the ground well before planting, incorporating organic matter where necessary. Plant the crown shallowly, keeping the developing buds close to the surface.

Avoid planting in waterlogged ground and do not bury the crown too deeply. Once established, try not to disturb the plant unnecessarily.

Garden Designer’s Tip

A wonderful choice for planting beside a path or sitting area where its fragrance can be appreciated. Combine with old-fashioned roses, lavender, hardy geraniums and nepeta for a classic cottage-garden effect.