Does Florida Have Peonies?

In Florida, the success of growing peonies depends on choosing varieties that can tolerate the warmer climate found in the region. While peonies are typically associated with cooler climates, there are several varieties that can thrive in Florida’s warm and humid environment. Planting peonies in late winter or early spring is the best way to ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms. With the right soil preparation and care, you can enjoy the beauty of these gorgeous flowers.

Peonies are known for their large, showy blooms and sweet fragrance, but they cannot grow successfully in hot areas like Florida and southern California. Peonies need a long cold period for their winter dormancy and temperatures of 40°F or below. Gardening experts describe different methods for growing peonies, how to create beautiful blooms year after year, a season-by-season care chart, and how to avoid common problems.

Contrary to popular belief, peonies can be grown in Florida, especially in coastal San Diego, zone 10b. Tree peonies, which require less chill, can be grown in North Florida or even USDA 10b. Tree peonies have woody trunks that don’t die down and bear flowers the size of dinner plates and grow as far south as northern Florida.

Peonies grow from zone 3 to zone 8, and they need a little winter coolness. Most of the Florida Panhandle is zone 8b, which is the warmest zone peonies can successfully grow. Peonies like full sun and require a cool to cold winter. It can be challenging to grow peonies in the south, where winter temperatures rarely fall below freezing for more than a couple days at a time. However, success is possible with the right soil preparation and care.

In summary, peonies can thrive in Florida with careful site selection and appropriate care.