The Gardener's Peony
Whether attracted to the stately blossoms of the regal tree peony or charmed by the quaint, old-fashioned simplicity of the herbaceous peony, few gardeners can resist the allure of these garden standouts. With their almost obscenely lush blossoms of the purest whites, pinks, and reds, peonies not only hearken memories of grandmother's day, they could also be the selfsame plants, for peonies are among the most long-lived of any garden inhabitant. Since the peony's history dates back some 1,600 years to ancient China and Japan, Page provides illuminating insights into how peony culture and enthusiasm has developed, both in discussion of the broader classifications and in precise descriptions of individual species' cultivars. For those gardeners wary of the plant's alleged sensitivity to climate and transplantation, Page dispels such myths through clear, precise instructions on proper growing techniques, care, and maintenance. Enhanced by more than 200 color photographs, Page's guide is an essential resource for peony devotees.Carol HaggasCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved