Paeonia x lactiflora Joker - Chinese Peony

The Paeonia lactiflora 'Joker' is a variety of herbaceous peony obtained in 1963, introduced to the market in 2004, and awarded in the USA in 2021. It is still relatively rare in the horticultural trade. This unique variety produces large double flowers that transition from dark pink to white with delicately fringed pink edges. The plant blooms fairly early in the season and develops sturdy stems that do not require staking. 'Joker' forms beautiful bouquets in shades of pink to white, whether in the garden or in a vase.

The herbaceous and hybrid peonies are mainly derived from Paeonia lactiflora, a perennial plant native to central and eastern Asia (from eastern Tibet and northern China to eastern Siberia), where it naturally grows in woods and meadows. This plant now belongs to the peony family. Its deciduous foliage emerges in spring and disappears in autumn. It grows from a large, fleshy root that does not appreciate being moved.

The Paeonia lactiflora 'Joker' is a cultivar derived from the seeds of Henry Bockstoce (USA), introduced by Landis in 1963, and brought to market in 2004. The plant forms an upright clump. It has a moderate growth rate, reaching a height and width of 76 to 80 cm. Its double flowers measure approximately 15 cm in diameter and are distinguished by their changing colour: they open in dark pink and mature into snow-white with pink speckled edges. The flowering period extends from early to mid-season for peonies, between the beginning and the end of May, depending on the climate. The very strong stems of this peony can support the weight of the large flowers, with each stem bearing one to three flowers. The young foliage unfurls into large, deeply cut, bright green leaves. They are carried on a petiole that divides into 3, with lanceolate or ovate-lanceolate segments. In this variety, the flowers are not scented.

The 'Joker' peony is a robust and versatile perennial that fits perfectly in various landscaping designs. Its graduated colouration during flowering stands out in borders, beds, and floral arrangements. It can easily be paired with robust perennials, annuals, or roses. For example, with white or pink 'David' or 'Rosa Pastel' panicled phlox, the roses 'Variegata di Bologna' or 'Gros Provins panaché'. To lighten the scene, consider adding forget-me-nots.

The peony can also contribute to the flower reserve for bouquets in the vegetable garden. However, growing it in a pot is not recommended as its needs will not be met. Over time, it becomes majestic and blooms more abundantly, producing up to 60 flowers.