Peonies and their origins in Greece may be the first known flowers to flower in the world. While the peony first appeared in China, it was in Greece that it was first cultivated and became widely grown. The Greek island of Naxos, where peonies are known to have been planted by the ancient Greeks over 3,000 years ago, has one of the world’s great peony gardens, and has been the host of many horticultural conventions and shows. Let’s delve a little deeper into peonies.
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Peonies Origin
Peonies have been around since 1000 BC, which is over 4000 years ago! By the eighth century, they had made their way from Chinese gardens to Japan, which is clearly a big producer of peony. Peony flowers were traditionally used to cure headaches, asthma, and even birthing discomfort. They were introduced to Europe in the late 1800s and were an immediate success. And utilized for gardening all around Europe, North America, and beyond straight away! Peonies are mostly used for decoration these days.
According to legend, the word peony comes from Paeon (or Paean), the gods’ physician in Greek mythology. He was a pupil of Aesculapius, the Greek deity of medicine. According to legend, when Paeon used a peony root to heal Pluto, Aesculapius got resentful and attempted to kill him. Zeus saved him from death by turning him into a peony plant, which many people adored.
When do Peonies bloom?
Peonies bloom in late spring and early summer, but by planting a variety of kinds, you can have a continuous display of flowers from mid-May to late June.
‘Early Scout’ has red single blossoms that bloom extremely early, while ‘Firelight’ has pale-pink single blossoms that bloom very early.’Karl Rosenfield’ is a late-blooming double with huge crimson blossoms that bloom in the middle of the season.’Norma Volz’ blooms in the middle of the season, with huge, white, completely double flowers. ‘Elsa Sass’ is a late-season bloomer with double, pure-white Camellia-like flowers. ‘Rare Flower of Frosty Dew’ is a late-season bloomer with bright pink fragrant blossoms on a 3-foot shrub.
Peony Meaning
The peony is a flower that represents romance, empathy, good luck, wealth, a long marriage, and even shyness in flower language. Peonies are known as the “queen of flowers” in their native China and are the official state flower of Indiana. Peony flower meaning is different in different regions and the most popular is good fortune.
Read More: Indiana State Flower – Peony
Peony Symbolism
In different parts of the world, peonies flowers are symbolic of a variety of things. The Greek myth of Paeonia the nymph has given peonies the reputation of representing shyness. Victorians believed that peonies were cursed by fairies. The petals of peonies are even thought to bring bad luck if allowed to dry out and fade. Peonies, on the other hand, are known as the “king of flowers” in China and Japan. They’re also employed in huge, important events like Chinese New Year and other religious customs.
They are also said to represent wealth. This is due to the fact that for a long time, only Chinese rulers wore peonies. They are a sign of bravery, honor, and good fortune in Japan. Peonies, on the other hand, are generally associated with prosperity, good fortune, love, and honor. So, whether you know someone who is getting married, graduating, or just had a baby, a lovely peony bouquet will be ideal!
Peony Color Meanings
Let’s have a look at the different colors of peonies and their meaning.
White Peony Meaning
White peonies express shame as much as beauty. As a result, if you want to honestly apologize, ask for forgiveness, or simply say, “I messed up,” they make a terrific present.
Yellow Peony Meaning
Yellow peonies, like other yellow flowers, represent a fresh start and good fortune.
Red Peony Meaning
A red peony flower, like the famous red rose, signifies passionate love and romance in floral language.
Pink Peony Meaning
Pink peonies are a flower that perfectly complements a wedding anniversary since they are a symbol of a joyful marriage, honor, and riches in Feng Shui. It has been named the official 12th wedding anniversary flower as a result of its widespread popularity.
Facts about Peonies
- Peony is a plant that will last a long period. Peony plants can live for up to 100 years and still bloom.
- Asia, Southern Europe, and Western North America are all home to peonies.
- Peonies come in over 6,500 different types, with more being added all the time.
- Although the Netherlands produces the most cut peonies (nearly 40% of total global production), Alaska is an up-and-coming peony producer.
- In the 7th century BCE, members of China’s Tang Dynasty began breeding peonies in imperial courts. In the early 11th century, their popularity expanded to Japan, and in the 18th century, it moved to France and England.
Order peonies online for delivery from SnapBlooms now that you know everything there is to know about peonies. Choose from a variety of colors and types, and surprise someone special with free same-day flower delivery.
FAQs
Yes, peonies symbolize wealth, good luck, love, and honor.
It is admired because it brings good fortune, riches, and a joyous wedding. They also have a range of meanings, which is why they are special.
Peonies are not in the rose family.
