PEE-ony or pe-OH-ny? It really doesn’t matter, but however
you choose to pronounce it, chances are you’ve heard of the peony. The
lifestyle influencer of the flower world, the peony has rich-girl hair and a
perfectly organised pantry, and lives in a constant state of gentle aesthetic
perfection.
All jokes aside, peonies have been a mainstay of the floral
industry for many years and their popularity shows no signs of abating. A much
loved crowd favourite, peonies come in a dazzling array of colours and
varieties and flower growers seem to produce new ones every season. They are a
truly astonishing flower, emerging from a tiny bud that you would have no idea
housed such frilly flamboyance. From the single layered tree peonies, to the
colour changing Coral Charm, there is a peony variety for every flower lover.
It should be noted that while the season for locally grown
peonies is from late October to late December, Australia gets a flush of
imported Dutch peonies every autumn through April and May. This can vary
though, depending on certain factors. For instance, in the autumn of 2019,
imported peonies were available right up until June, presumably due to the
European heatwave. Be prepared for some fluctuation in cost, depending which
peony season you make use of.
Another spring garden favourite, peonies look best when
they’re fully open, and allowed to relax into their natural shape. A tightly
packed arrangement will make them look more closed, so some difference in
height and dimension is essential. The past decade or so has seen a return to
natural and unforced shapes when it comes to flower arranging, which works
perfectly with a flower such as the peony.
Peonies are super versatile and can be used all throughout
your wedding. From your personal flowers to your ceremony arrangements and
table centres you can count on them to provide a powerful hit of romance and
glamour for your day.
