Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa 'Fen Lan Pan' PINK BLUE SAUCER)

Overview

The Tree peony, specifically the cultivar Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER, is a breathtaking addition to the landscape, prized for its woody structure that persists year-round, unlike its herbaceous cousins. This selection is particularly valued for its rose-shaped flowers displaying a delicate pink hue with a subtle blue tint, complemented by a dense, lovely fragrance. As a long-lived shrub, the Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER tree peony provides consistent, showy spring interest in temperate gardens.

These deciduous shrubs reach a modest height and spread, fitting well into established beds or used as impressive individual specimens. They offer structure in the winter and attractive, deeply divided foliage that remains appealing throughout the entire growing season. Gardeners embracing the Tree peony can expect a rewarding, low-fuss plant once established, though initial placement requires thoughtful consideration due to their deep roots.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Paeoniaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 3-5 ft
  • Spread: 3-4 ft
• Bloom Time: April to May
• Bloom Description: Pink with blue tint
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

The ideal planting time for the Tree peony is when the plant is dormant, typically in the fall, though spring planting is also possible. Location selection is crucial, as these plants prefer deep, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil. Ensure the spot receives full sun to light part shade, and larger shrubs benefit greatly from some protection against harsh, strong winds. Adding compost before planting enhances soil fertility.

Ongoing care is relatively simple, though these plants demand patience; they usually take several years to fully establish. Water moderately, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but never waterlogged. Unlike herbaceous varieties, you must resist cutting back the woody stems after frost, as this is a shrub that retains its structure. Pruning should be limited to removing dead wood or suckers in early spring, or a moderate fall pruning only if the plant becomes excessively leggy.

Remove spent flowers promptly after the blooms fade in late spring. Because tree peonies establish deep roots and transplanting can be difficult, once planted, they are best left undisturbed for decades. Gardeners in colder areas, specifically USDA Zone 4 and the colder edges of Zone 5, should ensure the shrub receives appreciation for some winter protection.

Landscape Uses

The highly showy flowers of the Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER make it an excellent choice for focal points within a perennial border or as standalone specimens. Because of its dense fragrance and elegant spring display, placing it near walkways or patios allows for maximum enjoyment. Its moderate stature (3-5 ft) also lends itself well to creating low, informal hedges along property lines, sidewalks, or walls, providing seasonal color near hardscape elements.

The attractive medium green foliage of this Tree peony ensures it serves as a reliable backdrop after flowering concludes. Consider pairing it alongside late-blooming perennials that appreciate partial shade, such as hostas (for foliage contrast) or Japanese irises (for complementary spring color). Using Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER as an accent in groupings lets the unique pink and blue-tinted flowers stand out boldly against darker evergreen shrubs.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

The specific cultivar ‘Fen Lan Pan’, often marketed as PINK BLUE SAUCER, features a signature rose-shaped flower form with petals exhibiting a beautiful pink color overlaid with a blue tint, accompanied by an intensely dense fragrance. This highly desirable tree peony grows reliably between 3 to 5 feet tall and is noted for being a free and generous bloomer each spring. The genus name honors Paeon, the physician of the gods, while the species epithet refers to its semi-shrubby nature.

Tolerances

• Rabbit
• Deer

Potential Problems

Tree peonies are generally considered very resilient and pest-free, which is a huge benefit for gardeners seeking robust spring color. However, watch for occasional issues like canker, leaf blight, or stem wilt. Scale insects can occasionally be a problem requiring monitoring. It is common to find ants congregating on the flower buds; be assured that these insects are entirely harmless and should be left alone, as they do not damage the plant itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Tree peony suitable for?

The Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER Tree peony thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8.

How large does the Tree peony grow?

This shrub typically reaches a mature height between 3 to 5 feet tall with a spread of 3 to 4 feet wide.

When does Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER bloom?

This beautiful cultivar blooms reliably in early spring, specifically from April to May, displaying its distinctive pink with blue tint flowers.

What sun exposure does this Tree peony need?

For best performance and flowering, the Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER requires full sun to light part shade conditions.

Conclusion

The Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER Tree peony is a superb investment for any gardener seeking spectacular, fragrant spring blooms atop a permanent woody structure. Its relatively low maintenance once established, resistance to browsing animals, and captivating flower color make it a standout perennial shrub. Before planting, confirm your location falls within USDA Zones 4-8 and prepare rich, well-drained soil to ensure this magnificent specimen thrives for generations.

Companion Planting

Selecting partners for Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER involves choosing plants that respect its need for deep, well-drained soil and appreciate its semi-shaded spring environment. Consider pairing it with spring-flowering bulbs like Daffodils or Fritillaria, which complete their cycle before the Tree peony is in full leaf. For summer interest beneath its canopy, shade-tolerant groundcovers can work well, provided they are not overly aggressive in competing for root space, given the deep root system of the peony.

As the Tree peony becomes larger, its lower branches may benefit from being lightly screened by medium-height perennials that bloom later in the season. Plants with contrasting foliage textures, such as Astilbes or Hellebores, create visual interest throughout the season, complementing the bold structure of the Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER. Ensure adequate airflow around the base to help prevent fungal issues common to many peonies.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Early Spring (Before Growth Emerges): This is the best time for any necessary structural pruning, focusing only on removing clearly dead wood or unwanted basal suckers. Amend the soil around the base with compost to provide slow-release nutrients.

Late Spring (Post-Bloom): Remove faded flowers from the Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Fen Lan Pan’ PINK BLUE SAUCER to redirect energy back into root and stem development. Do not cut back any of the green stems, as these are woody and will produce next year’s flowers.

Summer: Maintain even moisture, particularly during dry spells, as the plant is tolerant of heat but needs consistent watering until established. Avoid excessive disturbance of the soil near the root zone during the hotter months.

Fall: If winter protection is needed in colder zones (Zone 4/5), apply a thick layer of mulch after the ground freezes. This helps insulate the shallow-feeding roots of the Tree peony against extreme temperature fluctuations.