Duchesse de Nemours Peony

Duchesse de Nemours Peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Duchesse de Nemours')

Duchesse de Nemours Peony is a timeless white peony that brings a refined, classic look to sunny borders in late spring. It is a long-lived perennial that settles in and improves each year, producing a fuller clump and a more generous bloom show over time. The bright flowers lift mixed plantings and pair easily with any color palette, from soft pastels to bold contrasts. If you want an elegant peony that feels traditional, polished, and dependable, this one is a beautiful choice.

Distinctive Features

This herbaceous peony forms a sturdy mound of deep green, finely cut foliage and produces large, full double blooms in late spring to early summer. Duchesse de Nemours is known for creamy white flowers that can show a soft, warm tone as they open, creating a layered, luminous look in the garden. Many plants offer a pleasant fragrance, making it especially enjoyable near patios and walkways. After flowering, the foliage remains attractive through summer, keeping borders looking full and finished.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part sun, with at least 6 hours of sun for best flowering.
• Soil: Rich, well-drained soil is ideal, with compost added to improve structure and drainage.
• Water: Water regularly during establishment, then provide consistent moisture during dry stretches, avoiding soggy soil.
• USDA Zones: 3 to 8.
• Planting Depth: Set eyes just below the soil surface to support reliable blooming.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Plant where the fragrant white blooms can be appreciated up close, such as near patios, paths, or entry gardens.
• White Garden: Use to build a calm, light-toned palette with white flowers and textured foliage companions.
• Cut Flowers: Grow in a cutting garden for elegant blooms that hold well and look polished in arrangements.
• Foundation Planting: Place in front of evergreens or hedges to create a layered look with a bright spring highlight.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply during dry spells, especially in spring as buds form and after flowering as roots store energy.
• Staking: Support heavy blooms with rings or stakes if stems lean after rain.
• Feeding: Top-dress with compost in spring and avoid heavy nitrogen that can reduce flowering.
• Fall Cleanup: Cut stems back to the ground after frost and remove debris to keep the planting clean.

Why Choose Duchesse de Nemours Peony?

• Classic White Blooms: Creamy double flowers bring a refined look and brighten spring borders.
• Fragrant Appeal: Scented blooms add extra enjoyment near seating areas and walkways.
• Long Lived Perennial: Establishes into a clump that returns reliably and improves over time.
• Great for Arrangements: Elegant blooms make a polished cut flower for home displays and events.

Duchesse de Nemours Peony is a rewarding plant for gardeners who want timeless beauty with long-term reliability. Give it sun, well-drained soil, and a permanent spot where it can mature without disturbance. As the clump strengthens each year, it will deliver a bigger bloom season and a lush, finished presence that keeps borders looking composed.