They are also very hardy, thrive in most soils with minimal amendment, and are not demanding. For many years, peonies have been one of the most favored of spring flowers for another special reason. In the month of May on Memorial Day, one can see fragrant fresh bouquets of peonies in a splendid assortment of colors in cemeteries. Year after year, peonies are placed as special memorials by family and friends on the graves of their loved ones. In many rural areas peonies can be found displayed at quaint roadside flower stands, waiting patiently to be chosen just for this special day.
Peonies are outstanding as cut flowers.
A half dozen fully-opened blossoms will easily fill a vase with long lasting color. Cut several stems of their foliage and tuck them in with the peonies to lend great eye appeal to your spring bouquet. The delightful fragrance of some peonies is reminiscent of the old-fashioned rose. Almost all herbaceous peonies are descendants of a Chinese species known as P. lactiflora . These hybrids reach 2 to 3 feet in height, having dark green divided leaves that are shiny and very showy.