The World's Best Places to See Peonies

Peonies are renowned for their stunning beauty and captivating fragrance, making them a cherished flower in gardens around the world. Below is a florist’s guide to some of the best places to experience these blooms in all their glory.

1. The Peony Garden at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, USA

Located in Brooklyn, New York, this garden features over 100 varieties of peonies within a tranquil setting. The peak blooming season occurs from late April to early June. Visitors can enjoy both herbaceous and tree peonies, creating a vibrant display.

2. Lao Tzu Peony Garden, China

Situated in the city of Luoyang, this garden is famous for its annual Peony Festival held in April. Luoyang is often referred to as the "City of Peonies" and hosts around 1,500 varieties of this flower. The festival attracts thousands of visitors eager to witness the breathtaking blooms.

3. Hokkaido University Botanical Gardens, Japan

During late May to early June, the gardens in Sapporo showcase a delightful array of peonies amidst other flora. The Botanical Gardens are home to numerous species, offering a serene environment for nature lovers and photographers alike.

4. Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands

While primarily known for tulips, Keukenhof, located in Lisse, features a fabulous display of peonies as well. The gardens are open from mid-March to mid-May, and visitors can explore various garden designs that beautifully incorporate these luxurious flowers.

5. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, England

Kew Gardens boasts an impressive collection of peonies, especially in the Rose Garden, where they thrive in the springtime. The peak bloom typically occurs from late May to early June, attracting plant enthusiasts and families alike for a leisurely visit.

6. Château de Chenonceau, France

This historic castle's gardens in the Loire Valley include stunning peonies that bloom from late spring to early summer. The landscapes are meticulously maintained, providing a picturesque backdrop for tourists seeking to enjoy the beauty of peonies alongside French history.

7. The Peony Park, Nebraska, USA

This park is dedicated entirely to peonies, featuring over 600 varieties. The annual Peony Festival is celebrated in June, attracting peony lovers who come to admire both the blooms and partake in various activities and events.

8. Gardens of the Château de Versailles, France

The Grande Perspective of Versailles is renowned for its lavish gardens, which showcase a variety of ornamental plants, including peonies. Late spring offers the best time to witness their splendour among the iconic landscape.

9. The Denver Botanic Gardens, USA

Open year-round, the Denver Botanic Gardens feature a spectacular selection of peonies that bloom in late spring. The gardens offer educational tours and events, focusing on the horticultural importance of these beautiful flowers.

10. Morges Flower Festival, Switzerland

Held annually in April, this festival showcases a vibrant array of flowers, including peonies. The picturesque lakeside setting provides a stunning backdrop for the exhibition, which attracts visitors from across the globe.

Florist guide

Peonies enchant admirers worldwide with their delicate beauty and diverse varieties. From botanical gardens to flower festivals, the locations listed above offer exceptional opportunities to witness these exquisite blooms, making them essential stops for any flower enthusiast.