Indiana State Flower - The Peony
Peony
Paeonia lactiflora:hybr.
Family – Paeonicaceae – Peony
In Indiana the peony begins blooming in mid to late May and continues through early to mid June. The peony is the state flower of Indiana. It will bloom for a couple of weeks, then will display attractive green foliage the rest of the season.
The peony is a hardy stalwart of the perennial flower garden. It is a native of the far east – Mongolia and Siberia. The peony was introduced into Europe in 1548 and has been hybridized into many different varieties.
Peonies are best planted in the fall, August and September here in southern Indiana. They may also be divided then. The peony will exist for many years needing little care, thriving in all areas of the state. When bloom ceases or declines, you must divide the clump to increase the flower supply. This may happen every five years or so. Or never.
