Peonies

Anyone who loves peonies, and would like a good introduction to the species, should have this book. The sections on growth and cultivation, and the history of hybridised peonies are particularly informative. Great colour photos.

This book was the first of a spate of peony books written over the last few years, and is generally considered to still be the best and most useful by most folks in the peony growing comunity. It is a comprehensive overview of history, hybridisers past and present, and current cultivars of interest. England is producing some attractive books, but the truth of the matter is that the United States is where the "action" has been for the last half century as far as peony growing and hybridising is concerned. There has been a spectacular increase in interest in these beautiful flowers over the last decade, and Al Rogers' book will surely be remembered as a classic part of this era of re-discovery in years to come.

Allen Rogers answers anything you would want to know about growing peonies. From the beginner to the experienced, you will find information that will help you succeed in your cultivation of these wonderful plants.

About 4 years ago I planted out a fairly close version of the largest peony garden recommended in Appendix III. It has been a joy! The peony plant itself changes character over the growing season, and this design reflects that character and the colors. Visually, it's a different garden every few weeks! The book itself contains a lot of good information, very carefully done, I believe.

This is the peony book I was waiting for: easy to read, packed with practical information, with lots of wonderful color plates and nice drawings. Every peony question will be answered in reading this great book that will satisfy both the casual gardener or the peony specialist...