Peonies

Page explains Peonies from history to cultivation in a very short and simple manner. An excellant book for the beginner to start a peony garden.

A professional botanist and photographer, Page has selected more than 600 species for inclusion in this book. Chapter topics include history, cultivation, and the use of peonies in the garden. The peony species are presented alphabetically by their botanical names. Each entry includes geographic origin (most include the year introduced), physical description, season of bloom, and growing height. Chapters on tree peonies and hybrids are similarly arranged. The final chapter on where to see peonies lists gardens in the UK, China, France, and North America as well as peony societies from around the world. Appendices include a glossary and a thorough list of where to buy the plants. This is a lovely book, interspersed with beautiful color photographs of peonies in actual garden settings. It is thoughtfully arranged and easy to use and should answer any gardener's questions.