There’s just something about peonies. Whether it’s the ruffled petals, the sweet scent, or the way they unfurl with drama and softness all at once, they’ve certainly earned their place as one of the most adored flowers of the season.
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@northernstyling
But they’re also famously fleeting. Peony season is short and sweet, so when it arrives, we like to make the very most of it.
Here’s how to soak up every moment of peony magic while it lasts.
@jesshowellphoto
Why We Love Peonies
Peonies have that rare quality of making any space feel more beautiful with almost no effort. They’re elegant, romantic, and full of personality, bursting from tight buds into generous, frilly blooms that demand attention.
Whether you prefer them soft and blousy in pastel pinks and whites or bold and vibrant in rich corals and magentas, they always feel special.
Care Tips to Keep Your Peonies Happy
We usually provide your peonies in bud, so you can enjoy the magic of watching them open at home (and they won’t keep you waiting long!)
Here are our top tips for keeping them at their best for longer:
- Trim the stems at an angle before placing them in water and remove any leaves that sit below the waterline (this prevents rot and keeps the water clean).
- Use a clean vase and refresh the water daily, or every other day.
- Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources. Peonies prefer cooler conditions and will bloom more slowly (and last longer) if kept out of the sun.
- Re-trim and rearrange. After a few days, cut the stems shorter and pop them in a smaller vase to enjoy them all over again - on a coffee table, bookshelf or kitchen windowsill.
@northernstyling
Displaying Peonies at Home
Peonies don’t need much to make a statement. A bunch of simply peonies - without any other flowers - is effortlessly chic and always in style. Whether gathered tightly or displayed more loosely, their fluffy blooms create impact with minimal effort.
You can keep the focus entirely on peonies, or pair them with soft greenery or delicate fillers like astilbe to add texture and movement without stealing the show.
Styling with Peonies
Peonies already bring beauty in abundance, but a few thoughtful styling touches can make them feel even more special in your home:
- Create a show-stopping centrepiece using just peonies en masse in a low, wide-necked vase – bold, romantic, and incredibly elegant.
- Play with height . Mix shorter stems with taller ones to add interest and movement.
- Swap classic glass for stoneware. An on-trend stone vase offers a chic contrast to their soft, ruffled petals.
- Add a single stem (or two!) to a bud vase in your bathroom or by your bedside for an instant, luxurious pick-me-up.
- Style them for the table. Peonies make a gorgeous centrepiece for a dinner party or weekend brunch, adding instant summer vibes.
Gifting Peonies
When you want to make someone feel truly special, peonies are always a wonderful choice. They’re generous, joyful, and just that little bit luxurious.
Gift them as a simple bunch or choose a bouquet that puts peonies centre stage. Their meaning - romance, prosperity, and good fortune - makes them especially lovely for birthdays, anniversaries or thoughtful gestures.
Want to make it extra special? Pair your peonies with a candle, chocolates, or one of our seasonal gifts, available in-store or online.
@kath__cooke
Peonies, While They Last...
We know how loved peonies are (trust us, we get the DMs!). That’s why we’re proud to include them in our seasonal bouquets while we can get our hands on the best.
If you’re peony-obsessed, now’s the time to pop in or browse our Florist Choice Summer Bouquets here.
Just don’t hang about, peony season won’t be around for long!