Paeonia (Peony or Paeony) is a genus of flowering plants, the only genus in the Paeoniaceae family. They are native to Asia, southern Europe, and western North America. Boundaries between species are not clear and estimates of the number of species range from 25 to 40, although the current consensus is 33 known species.
Most are herbaceous perennial plants 0.5-1.5m tall, but some resemble trees up to 1.5-3m tall. They have compound, deeply lobbed leaves, and large, often fragrant flowers. The flowers range in color from purple and pink to red, white, or yellow and bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers have a very short blooming season, usually lasting only 7-10 days.
The ancient Chinese city, Luoyang, has a reputation as a cultivation center for the peonies. Throughout Chinese history, peonies in Luoyang have been said to be the finest in the country. Dozens of peony exhibitions and shows are still held there annually.
The herb known as Paeonia, has been used frequently in traditional medicines of Korea, China and Japan. In Japan, its root was used as a treatment for convulsions. In China, the fallen petals are parboiled and sweetened as a tea-time delicacy. Peony water, an infusion of peony petals, was used for drinking in the Middle Ages. The petals may be added to salads or to punches and lemonades. Ancient Chinese texts mention the peony was used for flavoring food. Peonies are also extensively grown as ornamental plants for their very large, often scented flowers.
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