Hortus Botanicus Leiden, Netherlands

Common name: Pioen, Pioenroos, Peony

Family: Paeoniaceae (Peony)

Synonym: Paeonia japonica

Distribution: China

Comments: The name of this species is derived from the obovate shape of its terminal leaves. This species is endemic to China, Japan, Corea and Siberia. The plant grows to a height of 60 cm. and a striking characteristic (for peonies) is the fact that its leaves keep growing after it has flowered. The colour of the flowers, which are up to 7 cm. wide, varies from white to pink-purple; sometimes they are cream-coloured. P. obovata flowers from mid spring to early summer. It is hardy up to -20°C.