Illatos kertibozsik - Paeonia lactiflora 'Karl Rosenfield'

Paeonia lactiflora 'Karl Rosenfield' is a classic herbaceous peony variety, renowned for its large, double, deep ruby-red flowers and its robust, elegant appearance. This perennial is one of the most popular choices in ornamental gardens, due to its vibrant color and imposing presence.

Flower appearance

• Shape : The flowers are double , with numerous overlapping petals that create a round, full, globe-like shape. The diameter of the flowers can reach 15-18 cm .
• Color : They are a deep ruby-red or crimson-red , sometimes with darker accents towards the center, maintaining their intensity throughout the flowering period. Unlike other varieties, they do not fade significantly.
• Fragrance : It exudes a sweet, subtle fragrance , typical of Paeonia lactiflora peonies, which adds to its attractiveness.
• Flowering period : Blooms in May-June , lasting approximately 7-10 days per flower. The plant produces several flowers in succession, which extends the floral display for several weeks.

Growth characteristics

• Height : Grows up to 80-100 cm tall and a width of about 70-90 cm, forming a dense and well-structured bush.
• Foliage : The leaves are dark green, glossy , deeply lobed, providing a superb contrast to the red flowers. The foliage remains decorative throughout the season, sometimes taking on reddish hues in the fall.
• Vigor : It is a vigorous plant, with strong stems that support the heavy flowers well, although in heavy rain or wind conditions it may require support (e.g. rings or trellises).

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun or light semi-shade , with at least 6 hours of daily light for optimal flowering.
• Soil : It needs fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral or slightly acidic pH (6-7). Soils rich in organic matter, such as loamy soils, are ideal.
• Watering : Requires regular watering, especially in the first year and during dry periods, but does not tolerate excess moisture or soggy soils.
• Planting : Plant in autumn (September-October) or early spring, with the rhizome a maximum of 2-3 cm below ground level, to ensure flowering.
• Pruning : In autumn, after the leaves have dried, the stems are cut 5-10 cm above the ground.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : It is extremely cold-resistant, withstanding temperatures down to -30°C (USDA zones 3-8), making it suitable for temperate climates, including Romania.
• Fertilization : A balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) applied in spring, when shoots appear, stimulates flowering. Avoid excess nitrogen to avoid favoring foliage at the expense of flowers.
• Pests and diseases : It is resistant to most problems, but can be affected by gray mold (Botrytis) in humid and poorly ventilated conditions; ensure good air circulation.

Origin

Paeonia lactiflora, the parent species, is native to East Asia , particularly China, Mongolia and Siberia, where it grows naturally in grasslands and mountainous areas. Cultivated in China for over 2,000 years, initially for its medicinal properties, it later became an ornamental symbol. The 'Karl Rosenfield' Peony variety was introduced in 1908 by the American breeder John Rosenfield, who gave his name to the plant. It is the result of selective crossing of lactiflora peonies, with the aim of obtaining a double, deep red flower that would last well in gardens. Since then, it has remained one of the most beloved peony varieties worldwide.