If you’re a flower lover, you’ll know that we’re almost in peony season, that wonderful time between late spring and summer. If you’re as excited for peony season as we are, we’ve got a treat for you – here is our guide to all things peony, from their fascinating history to making them last.
History of Peonies
Peonies have been around for thousands of years and have made their way from China to Japan and Korea, to the rest of the world. They have been used for medicinal purposes, to make tea, as décor, and have even been used to deter rabbits.
These uses aren’t limited to the past – even today, peonies are used in food and drinks, traditional medicine, and of course, as arrangements and décor.
Peonies in Different Traditions
One of the most fascinating aspects of the peony flower is how unique its perception is in different cultures and traditions. For example, in Greek mythology, it is both, a symbol of mercy and compassion, and one of jealousy and ill fortune.
In one myth, the name of the flower comes from Paeon, the Greek gods’ physician who was mentored by Asclepius, the god of healing. When Paeon showed up to his mentor and was about to be killed by him, he was saved by Zeus, who turned him into a peony.
However, in another myth, the peony gets its name from Paeonia, a nymph who attracted Apollo with her beauty. Because she was jealous of this attention, Aphrodite turned her into a peony. In China, the flower is so admired that it is rumored that one empress actually got so jealous that she decreed that the flower was not to be grown in the royal gardens.
Today, the peony still remains one of the most popular flowers in the world. It is so revered that it’s the floral symbol for China and the state flower of Indiana – it’s even the traditional gift for 12th wedding anniversaries.
Making Them Last
Like all flowers, peonies have a short shelf life, which is frustrating when you want to enjoy the flowers for as long as possible. However, there are some measures you can take to keep your peonies fresh for longer. One such measure is cutting the peony stem at an angle instead of straight on – this increases the surface area of the cut and allows the flowers to absorb more nutrients and water. Cutting the stem every alternate day will also allow you to remove any clogs that form.
Other measures include keeping them cold (by storing them in a fridge) and making your own flower food – just add one spoon of sugar to the water the peonies will sit in. When doing this, change the water every couple of days to avoid bacteria growth – cold water will also help them stay fresh longer!
Celebrating Peony Season
Want to celebrate peony season fully? Whether you’re a florist looking to stock wholesale peonies, or simply a flower lover, fulfil your floral needs using Berkeley Florist Supply. Having been in business since 1947, we are not only experienced, but also offer over 100 varieties of flowers.
If you’re in Miami, wholesale flowers are calling – come visit us. If not, don’t worry – we ship nationwide and even abroad. Additionally, we don’t just stock wholesale peonies and other flowers, but also offer all kinds of floral supplies, including packaging, containers, and wire. If you’re interested in our services, feel free to contact us here or ask for a quote here.