The peony meaning most often cited is romance, prosperity and a happy marriage. Pink peonies suggest love and good fortune, white peonies suggest purity or an apology, and red peonies suggest passion, honor and wealth.
Few garden flowers carry as much symbolism or as much history. Peonies were treasured in imperial China, named for a physician of the Greek gods, and have become one of the most requested flowers for modern weddings. Here is what each color means, where the meanings come from, and how to give peonies well.
Quick Answer: Peony Meaning at a Glance
- General meaning: romance, prosperity, good fortune and a happy marriage.
- Pink: love, happiness and good luck.
- White: purity, bashfulness and, in some traditions, an apology.
- Red: passion, honor and wealth.
- Anniversary: the peony is the traditional flower for a 12th wedding anniversary in some lists.
- Pets: peonies are toxic to dogs and cats if eaten.
Peony Meaning by Color
| Color | Meaning | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Pink | Romance, happiness, good fortune | Weddings, birthdays, Mother’s Day |
| White | Purity, bashfulness, a fresh start | Weddings, apologies |
| Red | Passion, honor, wealth | Anniversaries, congratulations |
| Coral | Warmth, desire, enthusiasm | Celebrations |
| Yellow | New beginnings, joy | Housewarming gifts |
Peony Symbolism in Chinese Culture
In China the peony is called the “king of flowers” and stands for wealth, honor and good luck. Tree peonies were grown in imperial gardens from the Tang dynasty onward, and the city of Luoyang is still famous for its peony festival each spring. Red and deep pink peonies are the most prized, which is why they appear on wedding décor, porcelain and silk art.
Peonies also feature in Japanese art, where they stand for bravery, good fortune and a respectful nature, and they appear in traditional tattoo designs and kimono patterns.
Greek Myth and Victorian Flower Language
The genus name Paeonia comes from Paeon, a physician of the Greek gods. In one telling, Paeon healed a wound inflicted on the god Hades and was transformed into a peony to escape the wrath of his teacher. Because of this story, the peony has long been linked with healing and protection.
Victorians read the peony as a symbol of bashfulness or shame, probably because the petals blush at the center. Most modern florists have dropped that idea in favor of romance, happiness and good fortune.
Why Peonies Are Popular Wedding Flowers
Peonies carry a built-in marriage message, and their full, ruffled blooms look luxurious in bouquets and centerpieces. They bloom for only a short window, mainly from late spring to early summer, so peonies out of season are expensive and often imported. If you are planning a wedding outside that window, ask a florist about peony-like substitutes such as garden roses or ranunculus.
Peony Gift Ideas
- Pink peonies in a simple vase for a new relationship, a mother or a friend.
- White peonies for a bride or a gentle apology.
- Red peonies for a 12th anniversary or an important celebration.
- A peony plant or root for a gardener, to be planted in autumn.
To open cut peonies, buy them as tight “marshmallow” buds, trim the stems, and keep them in cool water. They open within a day or two indoors.
How to Grow Peonies
- Plant bare-root peonies in autumn, in a spot with at least six hours of sun.
- Set the buds (eyes) no deeper than about 2 inches (5 cm) below the soil surface; deeper planting is the most common cause of no flowers.
- Space plants 3 to 4 feet apart for good airflow.
- Add a support ring in spring so heavy blooms don’t flop in rain.
- Cut stems to the ground in autumn and discard the leaves to reduce disease.
Our guide to when to plant peonies covers timing in more detail, and herbaceous peonies generally do well in zones 3 to 8, which you can check on the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Peonies need winter cold, so they struggle in very warm climates.
Common Peony Problems
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| No flowers | Planted too deep, too much shade, or too young | Replant shallower, give more sun, wait two to three years |
| Buds turn brown | Botrytis blight | Remove affected buds, improve airflow |
| White powder on leaves | Powdery mildew | Space plants and clean up in autumn |
| Flopping stems | Heavy double flowers | Use a support ring |
Peonies are toxic to pets, so check the ASPCA toxic plants list before bringing them home if you have dogs, cats or horses. For more symbolism guides, read our rose color meanings, tulip color meanings and May birth flower pages.
Conclusion
The peony meaning blends romance, prosperity and good fortune, with color adding nuance, from the blushing love of pink to the honor of red. Whether you are choosing wedding flowers or planting a root for next spring, the peony is a flower with a message built in.
FAQ
What does a peony symbolize?
A peony symbolizes romance, prosperity, good fortune and a happy marriage.
What do pink peonies mean?
Pink peonies mean romance, happiness and good luck, and they are the most common peony color for gifts.
Are peonies good for weddings?
Yes, because of their link with a happy marriage and their full, romantic look. Plan for their short late spring season.
Are peonies toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists peonies as toxic, and eating them can cause vomiting, diarrhea and tiredness in pets.
What is the peony’s origin?
Peonies come from Asia, southern Europe and western North America, and they have been cultivated in China for well over a thousand years.
