Karl Rosenfield Peony (Paeonia lactiflora cv.)

Herbaceous, spring flowering perennial
Description:Large, fully double, globe-shaped, crimson flowers, mid- to late-season
Habit: Grows to 3 feet high and wide; medium height stems and medium green foliage
Culture: Prefers full sun to light shade and well-prepared garden loam with added organic matter
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zone 3 through 8
Attributes: Deer resistant — Attracts butterflies

Both European and Asian peonies have been cultivated since ancient times. Those native to central China and Siberia (varieties of Paeonia lactiflora) were first introduced to the West by the 18th century and by 1784 breeding with the European peony was occurring in France and Britain. Because peonies are such long-lived plants, many 19th-century cultivars are still available. Thomas Jefferson noted “Piony” in a list of hardy perennials as early as 1771. ‘Karl Rosenfield’ was introduced in 1908 by John F. Rosenfield, an American peony breeder. The brightly colored flowers attract butterflies.

Arrives in a 1 gallon pot.