Fernleaf Peony
paeonia tenuifolia
Also known as: ["Fernleaf Peony","Featherleaf Peony"]
Overview
A deciduous herbaceous perennial with finely divided, fern-like foliage and showy, bright red flowers in late spring to early summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus: | Paeonia |
| Botanical Name: | Paeonia tenuifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with good air circulation, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late autumn or early spring; light pruning after flowering if necessary.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for division or rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun in summer; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; prefers cool winters and moderate summers; ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C).
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in summer; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid fertilizing during dormancy; water before and after applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; stem cuttings can be attempted but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp, sterile knife.
- Ensure each division has buds.
- Replant immediately at the same depth.
Best Time: Early autumn or early spring when the plant is dormant or just beginning growth.
Environment
Cool, humid environment with indirect light; protect from extreme temperatures.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added sand or perlite; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with stem cuttings; not necessary for division.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, full establishment in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, sterile cutting tools, gloves, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–5 years to maintain vigor; ensure divisions have healthy roots and buds; water well after division.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back dead or weak stems to the base; thin out overcrowded stems; shape by removing wayward growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage annually; thin out crowded stems to improve air circulation; shape as needed after flowering.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; thin overcrowded growth; shape plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early autumn or early spring when the plant is dormant.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches if repotting is necessary; ensure the new container has drainage holes.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; ensure the crown is at or slightly below soil level; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Not typically required; peonies are long-lived and resent disturbance; only repot if severely overcrowded or diseased.
Checklist
Choose appropriate container; prepare well-draining soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-mixed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed blooming in cold stress; bud drop in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; can lead to winter dieback if not properly mulched.
Solution: Apply a thick layer of mulch in fall; avoid planting in frost pockets; protect from harsh winter winds.
Hot Stress
Wilting; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilization; stop in late summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPaeonia tenuifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxins that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicPaeonia tenuifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicPaeonia tenuifolia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce any known toxins that would cause adverse effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Paeonia tenuifolia?
A: Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Q: Is Paeonia tenuifolia toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Paeonia tenuifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Paeoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
