Rock's Peony
paeonia rockii
Also known as: ["Rock's Tree Peony","Rockii Peony"]
Overview
A deciduous tree peony species native to China, known for its large, fragrant, semi-double to double flowers with distinctive dark centers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Paeoniaceae |
| Genus: | Paeonia |
| Botanical Name: | Paeonia rockii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive. Avoid waterlogged conditions which can cause root rot.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content. A mix of garden soil, compost, and sand or perlite for drainage works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late autumn or early spring. Deadheading can be done throughout the blooming season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Remove only dead, diseased, or crossing stems. Avoid heavy pruning as it can redu
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) is ideal, though partial shade in hot climates can prevent scorching. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is preferable; avoid harsh afternoon sun in summer; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend soil with organic matter for fertility; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold winters but requires a period of dormancy. Protect from extreme heat and humidity.
Protect from late frosts; ensure winter dormancy; provide shade during heatwaves; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; apply before blooming for better flower production; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Propagation
Methods
Division of roots is the most reliable method. Seeds can be used but require stratification and may not produce true-to-type plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide roots by cutting with a clean, sharp knife.
- Ensure each division has 3–5 eyes (buds). Replant immediately at the same depth. For seeds, sow in pots and stratify.
Best Time: Divide roots in early autumn or late winter while the plant is dormant. Seeds should be sown in autumn for stratification over winter.
Environment
Cool, humid conditions for root division recovery. Seeds require cold stratification (40°F or 4°C) for 3–4 months before germination.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added compost or peat for moisture retention. Sand or perlite can improve drainage if needed.
Hormone
Not necessary for root division. For seeds, cold stratification is more critical than rooting hormone.
Timeline
Root division: immediate establishment if done correctly. Seeds: germination in 1–2 years with stratification; flowering may take 3–5 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pruning shears, gloves, pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Divide only when necessary to avoid stressing the plant; ensure divisions have viable eyes for new growth; label seedlings to track varieties.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or to a healthy bud. Deadhead spent flowers by cutting just above a leaf axil or bud.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is required. Focus on removing dead or damaged stems and spent flowers to encourage reblooming and prevent disease.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune dead or damaged stems; deadhead spent flowers; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early autumn or late winter while the plant is dormant. Avoid repotting during active growth or blooming.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) in diameter. Peonies prefer slightly crowded conditions, so avoid overly large pots.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its container; trim any dead or circling roots; replant in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil at the same depth.
Suggestions
Peonies are generally long-lived and do not require frequent repotting. Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or if soil quality degrades significantly.
Checklist
Choose the right time; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; replant at the same depth; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone. Apply water slowly and deeply to ensure penetration to the root system, allowing excess to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth and blooming, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate sand or perlite to improve drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting or leaf drop in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration. Prolonged freezing can damage buds and stems, though established plants are hardy to USDA Zone 3.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; protect buds with frost cloth or row covers in extreme cold; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, bud abortion, and leaf scorch. High humidity can promote fungal diseases.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply to cool roots; increase air circulation; avoid overhead watering to reduce leaf wetness.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding; follow package instructions for dilution.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Apply a phosphorus-rich fertilizer before blooming. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer to encourage dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Paeonia rockii roots or seeds may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Paeonia rockii roots or seeds by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of paeonol and other bioactive compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPaeonia rockii contains paeonol and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Paeonia rockii?
A: Propagation is typically done by division in early autumn or by planting seeds, though seeds may take several years to flower.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Rock's Peony?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained, fertile soil and requires protection from strong winds.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Paeonia rockii turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies; ensure proper watering and soil conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Paeoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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