Peonies large showy blooms and layers of soft, delicate petals are highly prized.   My peonies arrangements here are favorites for anniversaries, birthdays and special occasions. 

They are the “King of Flowers” in Chinese culture and symbolize prosperity, good fortune and romance.  Western cultures associate peonies with beauty, elegance and a happy marriage.

• California peonies short blooming season, spans a few weeks in late spring to early summer.  Demand often exceeds supply.
• Peak season for South American peonies, notably from Equador and Colombia, is usually around November to January.   The added cost of airfreight is included in flower market pricing of these exotic perishables.

Such limited availability, high costs, as well as perishable risk, and strong demand drive the price high. Growing peonies is labor-intensive, needs specific soil conditions, and skillful pruning to maintain freshness and appearance.

I visit the flower market often to select hardy blooms individually for special-order arrangements. Photos on this page show representative designs with peonies I have created.

Yukiko