Bryan McAllister’s personal reference notebook
July 28, 2026Short & citedBlog
Civic Viewpoint.
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Kept by Bryan McAllister — short guides, clear facts, and the Canadian angle when it matters.
Field Notes • Plant

Peony

Peonies are a group of flowering plants in the genus Paeonia, valued for their large, often fragrant blooms and long-lived perennial growth habit.

Updated July 28, 20261 min readCited sources

Peonies are a group of flowering plants in the genus Paeonia, known for their large, fragrant blooms and long-lived perennial growth. They are widely grown in Canadian gardens because many varieties tolerate cold winters and bloom reliably.

What it is

Peonies are ornamental flowering plants grown for their large blooms in pink, white, red, or other colours. They are long-lived perennials that can persist for decades when planted in suitable conditions. Herbaceous types die back in autumn and regrow in spring.

Why it matters

Peonies are a staple in Canadian gardens due to their cold hardiness. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Planting depth is crucial: place the eyes about 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface. Once established, they need modest watering and minimal disturbance.

Key details

Ants are commonly seen on peony buds because they feed on sugary secretions, but they do not harm the plant. Peonies are usually cut back in fall after foliage dies back. With proper care, they can return and flower for many years.

In short

  • Peonies are long-lived perennials that return year after year.
  • They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
  • Plant peony eyes 1-2 inches below the soil surface.
  • Ants on buds are harmless.
Canadian angle

Peonies are widely grown in Canadian gardens because many varieties tolerate cold winters and bloom reliably in temperate climates.

Quick questions

How do you care for peonies?
Plant peonies in full sun with well-drained soil, water them moderately, and avoid overwatering. Established plants generally need little care beyond seasonal cleanup and occasional feeding.
When do peonies bloom?
Peonies usually bloom in spring to early summer. Exact bloom time depends on the species, variety, and local climate.
Why do peonies have ants?
Ants are attracted to the sweet secretions on peony buds. They do not damage the plant and are not needed for the flowers to open.

Sources

  1. Monrovia — https://www.monrovia.com/be-inspired/peony-care-guide.html
    Supports: Sun, drainage, planting depth, watering, pruning, and general peony care
  2. American Peony Society — https://americanpeonysociety.org/learn/about-the-peonies/care/
    Supports: Ants on peony buds are attracted to sugary secretions and do not help open buds
  3. BBC Gardeners' World — https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-peonies/
    Supports: Peony bloom period from April to July depending on variety
  4. MasterClass — https://www.masterclass.com/articles/peonies-guide
    Supports: Peonies are perennials that return year after year
  5. Scotts Miracle-Gro — https://www.scottsmiraclegro.com/en-us/learn/gardening/how-to-grow-peonies.html
    Supports: Watering, planting depth, and general growing guidance
  6. University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum — https://www.mbgna.umich.edu/post/horticulture-home-peony-care-101
    Supports: Ants are normal on peony buds and do not harm the plant