Paeonia lactiflora 'Shirley Temple' is a classic and extremely popular variety of herbaceous peony, renowned for its large, double flowers and elegant appearance. This perennial is a favorite choice in ornamental gardens due to its delicate beauty and subtle fragrance, being named in honor of the famous actress Shirley Temple, evoking her grace and charm.
Flower appearance
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Shape : The flowers are double , with numerous overlapping petals that create a round, full, pompom-like shape. The diameter of the flowers can reach 15-20 cm .
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Color : When opened, the flowers are a delicate pale pink , gradually fading to a pure creamy white as they mature, providing a refined visual effect. Sometimes the petals may retain subtle traces of pink towards the base.
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Fragrance : It exudes a sweet and subtle fragrance , typical of peonies of the Paeonia lactiflora species, which attracts pollinators and delights the senses.
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Flowering period : It blooms in May-June , lasting approximately 7-10 days per flower, although the plant produces several flowers successively, extending the floral show.
Growth characteristics
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Height : Grows up to 80-90 cm tall and a width of about 60-80 cm, forming a compact and well-structured bush.
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Foliage : The leaves are dark green, glossy , deeply lobed, and remain attractive throughout the season, even after the flowers fade. In the fall, the foliage may take on reddish hues.
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Vigor : It is a robust plant, with strong stems that support the heavy flowers well, although in windy or heavy rain conditions it may benefit from support (e.g. support rings).
Growing conditions
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Exposure : Prefers full sun or light semi-shade , with at least 6 hours of daily light for optimal flowering.
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Soil : It needs fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral or slightly acidic pH (6-7). Clay soils, rich in organic matter, are ideal.
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Watering : Requires regular watering, especially in the first year and during dry periods, but does not tolerate soggy soils.
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Planting : Plant in autumn (September-October) or early spring, with the rhizomes a maximum of 2-3 cm below ground level, to avoid inhibiting flowering.
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Pruning : In autumn, after the leaves dry, the stems are cut 5-10 cm above the ground.
Care and resistance
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Resistance : It is very resistant to cold, withstanding temperatures down to -30°C (USDA zones 3-8), which makes it suitable for temperate climates, including Romania.
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Fertilization : A balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) applied in spring, when shoots appear, stimulates flowering. Avoid excess nitrogen, which favors leaves at the expense of flowers.
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Pests and diseases : It is resistant to most problems, but can be affected by gray mold (Botrytis) in humid conditions; ensure good ventilation.
Garden use
Peony 'Shirley Temple' is perfect for borders, perennial groups or as a focal point in the garden. Its showy flowers combine well with roses, lavender or irises, and the dense foliage provides an attractive backdrop. It is also excellent for floral arrangements, due to the size and durability of the cut flowers.
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. It has been cultivated in China for over 2,000 years, initially for its medicinal properties and later for its ornamental beauty. The 'Shirley Temple' Peony variety was introduced into horticulture in 1948 by American breeder Louis Smirnow, who obtained it through selective crosses of lactiflora peonies. Its name honors the actress Shirley Temple, reflecting the purity and charm of its white flowers with pink accents.
Note: New growth is fragile and may break during shipping. The plant has rhizomes and will re-sprout.
