Paeonia rockii is a rare tree peony species endemic to China, known for its unique flower patterns and strong adaptability. Here are its detailed characteristics and additional information:
1. Flower morphology
Color and mottled: petals to white or pink, with deep purple or purple patches at the base, like ink stains, is its signature feature. Occasionally yellowish or light purple variety.
Pattern and size: single (5-10) , semidouble and double, 15-20 cm in diameter, parts up to 25 cm. The center of the flower is covered with golden stamens.
Aroma: elegant fragrance, similar to tea or fruit aroma, more persistent than other tree peony varieties.
2. Leaf characteristics
Structure: 2-3 pinnate compound leaves, lobules ovate or lanceolate, margin serrulate.
Texture: dark green leaves smooth, back with sparse gray-green hairs, autumn may become yellow-brown.
3. Plant characteristics
Morphology: deciduous shrub, plant height 0.8-2 meters, stem diameter up to 3-5 cm, perennial old stem lignification obviously, was gray-brown.
Root system: the fleshy root is thick, may go deep underground 1 meter, the storage nutrient ability is strong.
4. Ecological habits
– adaptability: Cold (- 30 °C) , drought tolerance, like sunshine, adapt to the altitude of 2000-3000 meters of plateau environment, in low altitude areas need to pay attention to summer shade.
Soil: should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5-7.5) , loose fertile sandy loam, bogey water.
5. Distribution and use
Country of origin: Western China (Gansu, Sichuan, Shaanxi, etc.) . Wild populations are found in Qin Mountains and Min Mountains.
Medicinal value: the root bark is processed into“Paeoniflorin”, which has the effects of anti-inflammation, analgesia, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, and is used for treating hypertension and gynecological diseases.
Garden application: isolated planting, cluster planting or special garden cultivation, flowering may-june, fruiting august-september (fruit, black seeds) .
6. Culture
Symbol: a symbol of wealth and perseverance, it is commonly found in traditional Chinese paintings and poems, such as Liu Yuxi’s“Appreciating the peony” of the Tang dynasty.
7. Cultivation and propagation
Propagation mode: Common Ramets (autumn) and grafting (tree peony root as rootstock) , seed propagation needs low temperature stratification treatment.
Management points: loose buds and promote flowers in spring, prune diseased and weak branches after flowering, earth up and prevent cold in winter.
8. Differences from other tree peonies
Compared with Central Plain tree peony, Paeonia rockii has more marked markings, stronger cold tolerance, larger plants and stronger aroma.
Distinguish from Paeonia lactiflora: woody stem (herbaceous) , flowering slightly later.
Paeonia rockii, with its unique patterns, strong vitality and profound cultural heritage, has become a treasure among tree peony, with both ornamental, medicinal and ecological values, it is an important resource for studying plant adaptability and horticultural breeding.