- Herbaceous type peonies die back to ground level each year. The above-ground growth of tree peonies stays intact. Intersectional peonies are hybrids of tree and herbaceous peonies.
- Both herbaceous and intersectional peonies reach a size of 20 to 42 inches each season. Most tree peonies reach a height of about 4 1/2 feet and a width of 3 feet.
- Intersectional and herbaceous peonies begin growing early in spring and reach full height and flowering potential quickly. Tree peonies grow slowly and may not produce flowers for a few years.
- For optimal growth, neutral pH soil that is amended with compost or organic material and that drains well is best. Tree peonies can be planted in sun or part shade, and herbaceous and intersectional peonies prefer sun.
- According to North Carolina State University, you should feed herbaceous peonies with a low-nitrogen fertilizer when stems are 2 to 3 inches tall. Keep fertilizer away from the crown of the plant. Feed tree peonies every few weeks between spring and first frost with fish or seaweed fertilizer.
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