Ten things you didn't know about peonies
Today is May 1st, officially peony season. A true wedding day favourite because of its voluptuous blooms and nuptial symbolism. I wanted to share some interesting facts about this superb flower. If you have a few minutes, grab a cuppa and have a quick read. Here are ten things you didn’t know about peonies.
If you’ve got your heart set on peonies, you’re best to choose a late spring/early summer wedding. They have a short season from May to early June; this is when their quality is best from British growers. You can get them from Holland a little either side of this time but the quality isn’t guaranteed.
Peony bouquet in glass. Image by Snap Photography.
Did you know that the peony represents wealth and honour? It also embodies romance and love; they are regarded as the omen of good fortune and happy marriage. These meanings help to make them the perfect choice for weddings. The large, showy blooms and stunning sweet scent help too!
When you buy peonies, they are most likely to look like a bulb on a stem, nothing like the gorgeous bloom they transform into. I can honestly say no other flower can cause me so much stress waiting for it to open.
Peony bulb
These beautifully scented flowers are available in many colours, not just white and soft pink. From pale peach to a vibrant fuchsia pink through to a dark maroon, pretty much any colour except blue. Any brave brides out there want to give these colours a go?
Unfortunately, peonies are a very thirsty flower. If you are having a hand tie consider putting it in water when you are not carrying it. They do perk up well after a little drink (don’t we all)
Half way through ten things you didn’t know about peonies! Five more to go!
Peony ruffles
Keep an eye out for little ants in your perfect flower. They love the nectar which forms on the outside of the bud. Obviously, I would have sorted this before you are walking down the aisle.
The bride holding her peony bouquet. Image by Snap Photography.
A massed bouquet of peonies always photographs beautifully, as you can see in the image of the gorgeous Bethan above. It must be because of its wonderful, fluffy texture.
According to the Victorian language of flowers. Peony means ‘bashfulness’. It’s said that mischievous nymphs hide in the petals. How cute.
If you are getting married out of the peony season there are some fluffy garden roses available. Or have a looksee at the gorgeous ranunculus as an alternative. It has a tonne load of petals like the peony but alas, not it’s sweet smell.
Wrist corsage. Image by Snap Photography.
A peony plant is great value for money. They can live to be over 100 years old! I have had one in my garden for the last 4 years and I haven’t managed to kill it yet. So yes, it’s obviously a happy and easy little plant.
So there you have it. Ten things you didn’t know about peonies. I hope you have found these facts an interesting read. They do say you learn something new everyday.
All images courtesy of Zoe at Snap Photography.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hi! I'm Anne-Marie, Petal Power is me. I run my event floristry business out of Creigiau, Cardiff.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this blog. Stay tuned for more.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Anne-Marie, the face of Petal Power
Hi! I'm Anne-Marie, Petal Power is me!
I run my weddings and event floristry business out of my studio in Creigiau, Cardiff, South Wales.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this blog.
If you want even more prettiness take a look back at my page. You will find information on the latest beautiful weddings I have been lucky enough to be a part of.
Also, you can keep up to date with essential advice, craft ideas, my favourite seasonal wedding flowers and more.
You can find out more about me and my work here.
Anne-Marie xoxo
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ARE YOU GETTING MARRIED?
I have created a page just for you.
It’s only natural that you have a load of questions when planning your wedding flowers.
Some of the most common questions that keep cropping up I have already answered. You will find this page helpful; to read more CLICK HERE
I have written so many blogs, take a few moments and have a good look.
But if you are wanting to see an example of one of my real life peony weddings you can read more here.
Peony bridal bouquet
I still have some availability for this year and next year. If you have booked your wedding date get in touch to discuss your wedding flowers.
I look forward to speaking to you.