Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa 'Hei Hua Kui' CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS)

Overview

Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS is a captivating deciduous shrub prized for delivering intense, dark coloration in the spring garden. This specimen, a variety of the Tree peony, produces large, semi-double flowers that appear nearly black, contrasting beautifully with its bright yellow central stamens. Tree peony cultivars like this one provide reliable, woody structure that remains above ground year-round, unlike their herbaceous cousins.

This long-lived woody shrub offers significant aesthetic impact, remaining attractive well beyond its primary bloom time in May. Growing between two to four feet high and wide, the Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS forms an elegant specimen or hedge. Gardeners value its deeply divided, medium green foliage which persists throughout the growing season, supporting its showy, fragrant flowers.

Once established, this Tree peony becomes a focal point in borders and foundation plantings. Its deep, rich bloom color offers sophistication and rarity among common spring bloomers. Ensure proper placement allows this cherished shrub to mature undisturbed for decades of reliable performance.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Paeoniaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 2-3 ft
  • Spread: 3-4 ft
• Bloom Time: May
• Bloom Description: Maroon-black
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

The best time to plant this Tree peony is typically in the fall, ensuring the roots have time to settle before winter dormancy. Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS thrives in deep, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil. Site it where it receives full sun to part shade, offering protection from the harshest afternoon blast, and ensure it benefits from some shelter from strong winds, especially in colder Zone 4 and 5 locations. Incorporate compost into the planting area before placing the shrub.

Water needs for this magnificent Tree peony are medium; aim for consistent moisture, particularly during the establishment phase, though the mature plant tolerates summer heat well. Unlike herbaceous types, tree peonies do not require cutting back after a frost; their woody stems must remain intact. Pruning should be limited only to removing dead wood or suckers in early spring. If leggy growth occurs, a moderate pruning in early fall can help shape the Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS.

These plants are exceptionally long-lived and establish slowly, often taking several years to reach full potential. Once planted, they resent being disturbed, and transplanting can prove difficult due to deep root systems. Deadheading spent flowers immediately after they fade encourages the plant’s energy to focus on root and branch development for the following season.

Landscape Uses

The dramatic presence of Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS makes it invaluable for high-impact landscape design. Use single specimens as striking focal points where their dark blooms can be fully appreciated. They are excellent performing as accents along walkways or driveways, drawing the eye with their unusual dark hues.

These shrubs are perfectly suited for use in traditional mixed perennial borders, serving as sturdy, structural elements that anchor the design. Alternatively, plant Massed Tree peonies along fences or walls to create an impressive, formal hedge effect. The attractive medium green foliage ensures texture and depth remain in the garden even when the incredible flowers are gone, framing other, later-blooming plants beautifully.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy
• Fragrant

Noteworthy Characteristics

Paeonia suffruticosa, commonly called tree peony, is a deciduous, woody shrub that typically grows 3-5’ tall with a 4’ spread. The true species features large flowers (6-8” across) with pink to white petals, each petal having a purple basal patch. Many cultivars of this species have been developed, with a wide range of petal colors including red, pink, purple, white and yellow. Cultivar flower forms range from single to semi-double to double. Blooms in early spring (May in the St. Louis area). Medium green foliage is deeply divided into oval to lance-shaped leaflets and remains attractive throughout the growing season. Genus name comes from the Greek name for Paeon, physician of the gods and reputed discoverer of the medicinal properties of plants in this genus. Specific epithet means sub-shrub or somewhat shrubby. CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS, as the name suggests, is most noted for its semi-double, deep maroon flowers (each to 6” across). Although flower color is not black as the trade name suggests, the deep maroon color is very dark. Yellow center stamens provide bright contrast. Flowers are fragrant, and bloom in early spring (May in the St. Louis area). This is a deciduous, woody shrub that typically grows to 3’ tall and 4’ wide. Medium green foliage is deeply divided into oval to lance-shaped leaflets.

Tolerances

• Rabbit
• Deer

Potential Problems

Tree peonies are considered to be relatively pest free when compared to many other flowering shrubs. However, they can sometimes show susceptibility to fungal issues like canker, leaf blight, or stem wilt, which are often exacerbated by poor air circulation or excessively wet conditions. Scale insects are another potential, though generally manageable, problem. Gardeners should also note that ants visiting the buds are completely harmless; they are there for the nectar, not to damage the plant.

Management focuses on cultural health. Ensuring the soil drains perfectly and providing full sun to gentle afternoon shade promotes robust growth, which naturally resists disease. If canker appears, promptly prune out the infected stems down to healthy, living wood, sterilizing tools between cuts to prevent spreading disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Tree peony suitable for?

This robust Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS variety performs best in USDA Zones 4 through 8.

How large does Tree peony grow?

It is a moderately sized shrub, typically reaching a height between 2 and 3 feet tall, with a spread spanning 3 to 4 feet at maturity.

When does Tree peony bloom?

You can anticipate blooms from this Tree peony in May, featuring its signature deep maroon-black flower coloration.

What sun exposure does Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS need?

This cultivar requires full sun exposure or can tolerate light, supplemental shade in hot afternoon environments.

Conclusion

The Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS offers unmatched drama with its heavily pigmented, fragrant blooms, making it a vital addition to any established landscape. As a woody Tree peony, it provides consistent, low-maintenance structure long after the flowering period ends. Before planting, confirm your site offers well-drained soil and sufficient space for this spectacular shrub to thrive for generations.

Companion Planting for Tree Peonies

Selecting the right companions is key to maximizing the appeal of your Tree peony display. Since tree peonies bloom early and then their foliage matures, pair them with mid-to-late season bloomers that can fill the void once the maroon-black flowers fade. Consider plants like Salvia, Catmint (Nepeta), or late-season Alliums, which thrive in similar full sun to part shade conditions and prefer well-drained soil.

For textural contrast near the base of Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS, consider low-growing groundcovers like creeping thyme or fragrant herbs. These low growers often have smaller leaves which prevent them from obscuring the woody base of the Tree peony, ensuring the unique structure of this specimen remains visible throughout the gardening season.

Seasonal Care Calendar for Deep Hues

Spring is the critical time for preparing your Paeonia suffruticosa ‘Hei Hua Kui’ CHAMPION OF BLACK FLOWERS for bloom. In early spring, before new growth aggressively emerges, carefully remove any visible dead wood or suckers emerging from below soil level. This is also the ideal time to amend the soil surface with compost near the drip line to provide nutrients without burying the crown.

During summer, monitor moisture levels, especially during dry spells, as medium water needs must be met to support the large flowers and substantial foliage. Apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs only if necessary, generally avoiding heavy feeding since these plants establish slowly. In autumn, gently remove any spent flower heads to direct energy back into root reserves, preparing the Tree peony for winter dormancy.