It was named in honour of Paeon, the physician of the gods. According to mythology, he received the first peony on Mount Olympus from the hands of Leto. The very last link at the bottom of this page will reveal many more interesting facts about the peony in history and lore. In Praise of the Peony Present day gardeners are inclined to take peonies for granted. The fact that they are so common tends to emphasize their many worth-while qualities.
Peonies are hardy, permanant, very easy to grow and enjoy freedom from pests for the most part.
The varieties available are very diverse in flower form and colour. Some horticulturists consider interest in peonies to be on the wane after a burst of breeding activity in the late-80s. The fact remains, their potentiality for further improvement and diversity seems inexhaustable, and in the last few years, a few new varieties have come along that eclipse even some of the classics in form and colour. Often overlooked, one of the finest features of peonies is the fabulous fall colour they provide. If grown in sun, peonies leaves turn from green to burgundy in a matter of a week.