My peony garden
In June 2024, Léa’s Peony Garden reached a new pinnacle of beauty and growth.
I established the peony garden in 2017 as a tribute to my Aunt Léa who raised me from age 2 to 11. It began with a single border of cherished peonies, transplanted from my former home. Most were heirlooms from my aunt, old friends, and my mother-in-law, Germaine. Midway between the road and my house, I outlined an oval-shaped border in full sun.
What began as a two-weekend project—just me, a small shovel, and an old garden hose—has blossomed into a lifelong passion for creating my small version of Eden. And a way to honor all the women who have given me love and friendship.
Bird’s-eye view of my garden
From above, my garden reveals its true artistry—a living canvas of patterns and blooms. Flowing lines weave together a harmonious puzzle of borders. This drone photograph was captured by my good friend Carlos Martinez in late July. It was during oriental lilies season. The photo showcases the intricate design of nearly nine borders, with one more extending further up. Stay tuned for an update next June, when the peonies will be in full bloom.
The best year’s show
By spring 2024, Léa’s Garden boasted ten large, flourishing borders. This was possible with the addition of a freshly constructed border in April and May. It unveiled the most spectacular display to date. Gardeners understand that peonies may take up to two to three years to reach full blooming potential. Yet, the garden was awash with vibrant colors and lush foliage. This was a testament to years of dedication and care.
Léa’s Garden has become a living tribute to family heritage. It represents the timeless beauty of peonies. This garden offers a serene and captivating landscape. It continues to evolve and inspire. In the fall of 2024, I planted dozens of new plants, anticipating even more breathtaking displays in the coming years.
Paeonia ‘Mary Jo Legare’
The numbers in the peony garden
Each year since its inception, I have expanded the garden. I add one or two new borders with newly acquired varieties, which are more diverse and, sometimes, more expensive. My collection has grown significantly. It started with fewer than 100 plants. Now, it has more than 425 plants, including 388 cultivars. There are also around 30 varieties without proper identification. These varieties are still loved for floral arrangements and most hold cherished memories.
Most of my peonies are herbaceous or garden peonies, with hybrids of lactiflora followed by herbaceous hybrids.
Paeonia ‘Largo’
Here is a compilation of the different types of peonies in my garden:
| Types | Number of cultivars (with id) |
| Lactifloras | 157 |
| Herbaceous hybrids (interspecific herbaceous hybrids) | 125 |
| Other species & cultivars of species (daurica, officinalis, tenuifolia) | 5 |
| Itoh (intersectional hybrids) | 77 |
| Woody (tree peonies) – suffruticosa group hybrids | 11 |
| Woody (tree peonies) – lutea group hybrids | 13 |
Views of the peony garden
Here’s a gallery showcasing various views of the peony garden in June 2024. It provides a glimpse into its beauty. More images of the different varieties to come soon.
A garden to enjoy after the peony season
The peony season can last up to seven weeks with a diverse mix of hybrids and favorable weather. After this period, other plants take over the spotlight in the garden. Siberian and beaded Irises, lilies, daylilies, and phloxes are excellent companions to peonies. They offer vibrant color and texture as the peonies fade. These mid to late-season bloomers complement the peonies. They also help ensure my garden remains filled with beauty throughout the summer.
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