Peony - Tree - Kamata-fuji
The Tree Peony Kamata-fuji, 'Paeonia', produces full double dark pink blooms. Every garden needs a tree peony. There was a time, many years ago in ancient China, when the only person who could own a tree peony was the Emperor himself. We're not sure what the penalty was for infringing this law, but it can't have been very pleasant. Fortunately for us, tree peonies are now slightly more available. There are very few plants that can compete with a tree peony in full bloom. They flower from late April to early May but the flowering season does vary from year to year. A mature plant can have in excess of a hundred flowers and these can be 10" or more across! The flowers range in color from maroon, crimson, scarlet, various shades of pink, to pure white. There are also tree peonies with yellow or purple flowers. The Chinese refer to the tree peony as 'Moutan'. This has been variously translated but probably means 'The Emperor Flower'. While the tree peony originated in China, it had found its way to Japan by the 8th Century AD. Japanese tree peonies tend to have less double flowers than their Chinese peers, and the flowers are more open and delicate. Growing only 4-5' tall, these exceptional Tree Peonies are sub-zero hardy and bloom for a lifetime. ... find out more
Geranium - Southcombe Double The Geranium Southcombe Double, 'Geranium oxonianum', displays fully double, pure pink blooms that sit atop bright green stems. They do best in sun, but will tolerate some degree of shade. For the most part, cranesbill are long-lived and do not require a lot of care. This plant would look wonderful in a pot on a sun-drenched porch and is also deer resistant.
