Few plants capture the spirit of late spring quite like the peony. With their lush blooms, heady fragrance, and timeless charm, peonies are a beloved favorite in Wisconsin landscapes—and for good reason. These perennials bring bold color and elegance to the garden bed. When properly planted, they’ll bloom reliably for decades with minimal maintenance.
Peonies Bloom in Late May to Early June
Peonies begin blooming in late May or early June in Zone 5b. Just as spring bulbs are fading and summer perennials are getting ready to shine. Their large, ruffled blooms range in color from soft whites and blush pinks to deep reds and vibrant corals. Peonies offer a dramatic focal point in both formal and cottage-style gardens. Whether you prefer the classic herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora), the sturdy intersectional varieties (Itoh peonies), or the stately tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa). Each type brings its own beauty and structure to the landscape.
Beyond their show-stopping flowers, peonies offer lovely, deeply lobed foliage that stays attractive throughout the summer, turning golden in the fall. They’re also a favorite among pollinators—especially early-season bees who welcome the generous blooms.
Thrive in Full Sun
Peonies thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, they are surprisingly hardy, drought-tolerant, and rarely bothered by pests or disease. One key to long-lasting blooms is proper planting depth: the eyes (buds) should be no more than 1–2 inches below the soil surface. Plant them too deep, and flowering can be reduced or delayed.
Pairs Well With June Blooming Perennials
In the landscape, peonies pair beautifully with salvia, catmint, baptisia, alliums, and ornamental grasses. They also make excellent cut flowers for indoor arrangements—often lasting over a week in a vase.
At Landmark Landscapes, we love incorporating peonies into our planting plans for their enduring beauty, seasonal drama, and low-maintenance appeal. Whether as part of a formal border, mixed perennial bed, or a standalone accent, peonies add a sense of luxury and timelessness that elevates any landscape.
Contact Us
Landmark Landscapes of Sheboygan Falls, WI is a full-service landscape company. Based out of Sheboygan County, with a Green Lake, Wisconsin satellite office. We are centrally located and uniquely positioned to serve the areas of Sheboygan, Elkhart Lake, Fond Du Lac County, Green Lake County, Ozaukee County, Manitowoc County, and Door County. We can manage your property with our Total Property Care system, and design and build projects large and small. Contact us today at 920-467-6442 to learn how we can care for you.
