Tree Peony (Paeonia delavayi)

Family: Paeoniaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Paeonia delavayi is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.6 m (5ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweetened for a teatime delicacy, or can be cooked in various dishes. — The following use is for P.; It quite probably also applies to this closely-related species.[K - see 214].; Flowers - cooked.; The fallen flower petals are parboiled and sweetened for a teatime delicacy, or can be cooked in various dishes.

Habitat & North American Range

Shady, moist areas of pine forests, in forest clearings and among scrub at altitudes of between 3,050 - 3,650 metres. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)