Peony~ Good Life, Happy Marriage, Bashfulness
Botanical Name: Peonia Family: Paeoniaceae
”Bashfulness so oft applies thus peonies are for the sky.”
Named after Paeon, Physician to the Gods, the first modern peony was grown widely in medieval England, especially in monastery gardens, although ancient peonies were said to come from China. Legend tells that mischievous nymphs hid in the petals of the peony causing this magnificent flower to be given the meaning of bashfulness. In eighth century China, the red peony was considered the King of Flowers, symbolizing abundance. It is said he first obtained the plant on Mount Olympus from the Mother of Apollo.
Peonies can live for a hundred + years if undisturbed.
I love peonies, too. They are a favorite wedding flower, and are considered in Hollywood to be the “new” rose.
I have a really good wholesale source for them, if you are interested.
My grandfather grew them and so did my mother. I need to get some started, because they are so beautiful.
I love your blogs, Heidi, and I can’t wait to meet you!
How interesting – perhaps I should investigate these for my garden!
When my daughter was married 4 years ago this coming June 19th, it was in the Peony Garden at the New Jersey Botanical Gardens. At the time, I didn’t know the meaning of the name of the flower, and knowing it now makes the setting all the more appropriate.
The Peony is so interesting, I am always fascinated by the fact that if it weren’t for the humble ants drawn to the sweetness and nibbling on the buds, the flowers would not even open. So happy to have had a mother who taught me these little things.
Claudia @ Weeds & Seeds Swap
I love peonies! Thanks for the history lesson. Now, I’ll appreciate them even more!
That was interesting. I would like more peonies in my life.
Whole Blossoms Wholesale Flowers offers a wide variety of peonies. They make excellent wedding flowers. Wholesale flowers last 3 times longer and come to you direct from the farms.
When I gaze up at the heaven above,
Sensing warmth, I hunger for your love,
Many peonies surround your beautiful face,
A feeling of romance envelopes this place…