Peonies are some of the most sought-after flowers in the world, admired for their lush, layered petals, captivating colours, and rich fragrance. 

With so many different types of peonies available, it’s no wonder they’re a favourite in gardens and floral arrangements. But just how many types of peonies are there? This guide explores different kinds of peonies, their characteristics, and how they can be used to create stunning floral designs.

At Windflower Florist, we curate exquisite bouquets and arrangements featuring these elegant blooms, delivered fresh with our same-day service. Let’s dive into the world of peonies!

1. Sarah Bernhardt

One of the most famous peonies, ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ is a classic, soft pink variety with large, double blooms and a delightful fragrance. Its ruffled petals and romantic color make it a popular choice for bridal bouquets and elegant floral arrangements. 

This variety pairs beautifully with roses, hydrangeas, and greenery to create soft, vintage-inspired designs. Its long vase life also makes it an excellent option for luxurious indoor displays.

2. Festiva Maxima

‘Festiva Maxima’ is a timeless white peony with delicate crimson flecks at the petal edges, adding a touch of drama to its pristine appearance. Its large, fully double blooms are perfect for wedding bouquets, where they exude purity and sophistication. 

When combined with soft pinks and lush greenery, this peony creates an airy, romantic arrangement. Its strong fragrance makes it a favorite in fragrant centerpieces and floral installations.

3. Karl Rosenfield

This deep, velvety red peony is bold and eye-catching, with lush double blooms that make a statement in any bouquet. ‘Karl Rosenfield’ pairs beautifully with white or blush flowers for contrast or stands alone in a dramatic, monochromatic arrangement. 

Its sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms make it ideal for event centerpieces. This variety also works well in garden-inspired floral designs with wildflowers and cascading greens.

4. Coral Charm

‘Coral Charm’ is a semi-double peony that transitions from deep coral to soft peach as it matures, making it an exciting and dynamic addition to floral arrangements. This variety adds warmth and vibrancy to bouquets, pairing beautifully with cream and blush-toned flowers. 

Its unique color shift makes it ideal for summer weddings and cheerful arrangements. With its sturdy stems, it holds up well in larger floral installations and cascading bouquets.

5. Duchesse de Nemours

This pure white peony with creamy undertones is known for its elegant, soft glow and delicate fragrance. ‘Duchesse de Nemours’ is a staple in classic wedding bouquets, often used alongside roses, gardenias, and eucalyptus. 

Its lush, full blooms create a dreamy, cloud-like effect in centerpieces and floral arches. This variety symbolises purity and grace, making it perfect for sophisticated and timeless floral designs.

6. Shirley Temple

Named after the beloved child star, this peony opens as a blush pink bloom before fading into a soft ivory hue. Its elegant transition in color adds dimension and depth to floral arrangements. ‘Shirley Temple’ pairs beautifully with pastel-toned flowers and delicate foliage for a romantic, feminine touch. 

It is a great choice for bridal bouquets and vintage-style floral displays, bringing a touch of nostalgia and charm.

7. Pink Hawaiian Coral

A stunning semi-double peony in vibrant coral-pink, this variety adds a tropical and energetic feel to floral arrangements. 

The golden-yellow center contrasts beautifully with the vivid petals, creating a warm and cheerful bouquet. ‘Pink Hawaiian Coral’ works well in summer arrangements, complementing warm-colored flowers like ranunculus and dahlias. Its bright, eye-catching hue makes it a fantastic focal flower in both modern and rustic floral designs.

8. Bowl of Beauty

This unique Japanese-style peony features deep pink outer petals and a striking yellow center, giving it a delicate yet exotic look. ‘Bowl of Beauty’ adds texture and contrast to floral arrangements, standing out in both garden-style and contemporary designs. 

It pairs well with softer pastel blooms to create balance or with vibrant colors for a more dynamic look. Its open form allows for beautiful layering in mixed bouquets.

9. Kansas

‘Kansas’ is a bold, magenta peony with full double blooms, perfect for adding richness and depth to floral designs. Its vibrant color makes it an excellent focal flower in dramatic arrangements. 

This variety pairs beautifully with soft whites and greens to create contrast or with other jewel tones for a bold, luxurious display. Its sturdy stems and long vase life make it a fantastic choice for event décor and striking centerpieces.

10. Monsieur Jules Elie

With its large, pastel pink double blooms and a subtle silvery sheen, ‘Monsieur Jules Elie’ exudes vintage charm and elegance. This heirloom peony is perfect for romantic bouquets, blending well with soft-colored roses, lilacs, and baby’s breath. 

Its lush appearance makes it a great choice for classic wedding arrangements. The gentle fragrance adds an extra touch of beauty to both fresh-cut bouquets and garden-inspired floral designs.

11. Shimanishiki

A rare and striking bi-colored peony, ‘Shimanishiki’ features deep pink petals streaked with white, giving it a marbled effect. This variety is ideal for adding artistic flair to floral arrangements and bouquets.

Its bold coloration pairs well with simple, neutral flowers to let its unique pattern shine. ‘Shimanishiki’ is perfect for contemporary or Asian-inspired floral designs where contrast and texture play a key role.

12. Renkaku

A stunning Japanese tree peony with elegant white petals and a soft golden center, ‘Renkaku’ brings an ethereal touch to floral designs. Its delicate, ruffled petals add an airy, romantic feel to wedding bouquets and ceremonial arrangements. 

The soft, creamy-white hue makes it an excellent neutral base for more colorful floral compositions. This variety works well in cascading bouquets and organic, garden-style arrangements.

13. Kamada-Nishiki

This Japanese-style peony features soft pink petals with a bright golden-yellow stamen center, giving it a balanced and graceful look. ‘Kamada-Nishiki’ adds warmth and contrast to floral designs, standing out in minimalist and structured arrangements alike. 

Its semi-double blooms provide a lovely texture when combined with roses and other peony varieties. This variety is perfect for springtime bouquets and natural, unstructured floral arrangements.

14. Hana Kisoi

A delicate blush-pink peony with soft, feathery petals, ‘Hana Kisoi’ is a symbol of elegance and grace. Its romantic pastel color pairs beautifully with other soft-hued flowers for dreamy wedding bouquets. 

The gentle, rounded form of this variety makes it ideal for vintage and garden-style arrangements. Its subtle fragrance enhances its appeal in both hand-tied bouquets and luxurious floral centerpieces.

15. Yachiyo Tsubaki

This Japanese peony variety features densely layered petals in a deep rose-pink hue, creating a luxurious and velvety bloom. ‘Yachiyo Tsubaki’ is an excellent focal flower in elegant bouquets, offering depth and texture. 

It works beautifully in traditional and modern floral arrangements alike, particularly when paired with soft greens and white accents. This variety is perfect for adding a touch of classic sophistication to any floral design.

16. Souvenir De Maxime Cornu

This stunning apricot-yellow peony with hints of pink and coral is a rare beauty in floral arrangements. ‘Souvenir De Maxime Cornu’ has large, ruffled double blooms that exude warmth and elegance, making it a perfect choice for romantic and vintage-inspired designs. 

Its color pairs beautifully with soft pastels or deeper shades like burgundy for contrast. This variety is ideal for adding a touch of sunset-inspired hues to bouquets and centerpieces.

17. Godaishu

A classic pure white tree peony with large, open blooms, ‘Godaishu’ is a symbol of elegance and refinement. Its petals have a soft, silky texture, creating a cloud-like effect in floral arrangements. 

This variety works beautifully in minimalist, all-white bouquets or when paired with delicate greenery for a timeless aesthetic. The sheer size and delicacy of its blooms make it a showstopper in large floral displays.

18. Shimane Chojuraku

This deep lavender-pink peony with a rich golden center brings a bold and sophisticated touch to floral designs. ‘Shimane Chojuraku’ is perfect for adding contrast to softer pastel flowers, making it a stunning focal point in bouquets. 

Its ruffled petals and vibrant hue pair well with muted greens and ivory tones. This variety is an excellent choice for garden-style and rustic floral arrangements.

19. Rockii Peonies

A unique variety named after botanist Joseph Rock, Rockii peonies feature delicate, semi-double white or pale pink blooms with striking dark maroon centers. Their exotic and artistic appearance makes them a favorite in contemporary floral designs. 

The contrast between the dark center and the soft petals creates depth and intrigue in bouquets. These peonies work beautifully in organic, free-flowing arrangements with wildflowers and natural greenery.

20. High Noon

A vivid yellow tree peony with golden undertones, ‘High Noon’ adds a cheerful and bright element to floral compositions. Its semi-double petals create a lush, full bloom that stands out beautifully against deeper colors like purple or burgundy. 

This variety is perfect for summer bouquets, adding a pop of sunshine to any arrangement. Pair it with white peonies and soft green foliage for a fresh and elegant look.

21. Bartzella

One of the most sought-after yellow intersectional (Itoh) peonies, ‘Bartzella’ is known for its massive, semi-double blooms with a soft lemony hue and a subtle fragrance. 

Its petals have a ruffled texture that mimics the classic charm of herbaceous peonies while offering the sturdiness of a tree peony. 

This variety pairs well with pinks and corals for a lively spring bouquet. It’s also a favorite for large-scale event arrangements due to its long-lasting, showy blooms.

22. Cora Louise

This gorgeous Itoh peony features large, semi-double white blooms with deep lavender-pink centers, creating a striking two-tone effect. ‘Cora Louise’ is perfect for adding contrast and depth to floral designs while maintaining an overall soft, romantic look. 

Its sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms make it ideal for both bouquets and centerpiece arrangements. This variety pairs beautifully with lilacs, dusty miller, and other pastel-colored flowers.

23. Hillary

A coral-pink Itoh peony with a creamy center, ‘Hillary’ transitions from deep rose to soft blush as it matures. Its large, semi-double blooms provide depth and texture, making it a great focal flower in both classic and contemporary floral designs. 

This variety looks stunning when combined with cream and peach-colored blooms for a warm, elegant aesthetic. With its long-lasting petals and sturdy stems, ‘Hillary’ works beautifully in cascading or structured bouquets.

24. Garden Treasure

A rich golden-yellow peony with a touch of orange at the petal edges, ‘Garden Treasure’ is both vibrant and sophisticated. Its semi-double blooms add brightness to floral arrangements, pairing well with softer pinks and deep reds for a stunning color contrast. 

This variety’s sturdy stems make it a great choice for large event displays and bridal bouquets. ‘Garden Treasure’ brings a unique warmth to floral compositions, perfect for summer weddings.

25. Scarlet Heaven

With its striking crimson-red, semi-double blooms and golden center, ‘Scarlet Heaven’ is a dramatic addition to floral arrangements. 

This Itoh peony has strong, upright stems that make it perfect for structured bouquets and centerpiece designs. 

The deep red petals contrast beautifully with soft blush and ivory flowers, creating a visually stunning arrangement. This variety is ideal for bold, elegant floral compositions.

26. Canary Brilliants

A peachy-yellow Itoh peony with hints of coral and pink, ‘Canary Brilliants’ adds a soft yet vibrant glow to floral designs. Its semi-double blooms change color as they mature, creating dynamic, multi-tonal arrangements. 

This variety pairs beautifully with warm-toned flowers such as apricot roses and orange ranunculus. Its sturdy stems and unique coloration make it a favorite for garden-inspired bouquets.

27. Julia Rose

A color-changing Itoh peony that transitions from deep pink to soft peach and creamy yellow, ‘Julia Rose’ is a dynamic and eye-catching bloom. 

This variety adds depth and variety to floral designs, making it a standout choice for artistic bouquets.

Pair it with neutral whites and deep burgundy tones for an elegant, painterly effect. ‘Julia Rose’ is an excellent choice for modern floral compositions that play with gradient colors.

28. First Arrival

One of the earliest-blooming Itoh peonies, ‘First Arrival’ features large, semi-double lavender-pink blooms with a golden center. Its soft, feminine color makes it a great choice for springtime floral arrangements. 

This variety blends well with other pastels like blush roses and ivory peonies, creating a delicate, ethereal look. Its sturdy stems and long-lasting petals make it a reliable flower for bouquets and table centerpieces.

29. Lafayette Escadrille

A rich magenta-pink peony with slightly ruffled, semi-double petals, ‘Lafayette Escadrille’ is bold and vibrant. This variety stands out beautifully in deep-hued floral arrangements and pairs well with softer pinks and purples for a balanced look. 

Its long-lasting blooms make it perfect for both fresh and dried floral designs. Use this peony in garden-inspired bouquets for a lush, full-bodied aesthetic.

30. Morning Lilac

This striking deep purple Itoh peony with streaks of fuchsia is a stunning focal flower in any floral arrangement. Its bold coloration adds drama and richness to bouquets, making it perfect for elegant evening events or vibrant summer arrangements. 

‘Morning Lilac’ pairs well with light pink and white blooms for a sophisticated contrast. Its large, semi-double flowers bring texture and depth to floral designs.

31. Sword Dance

A deep red Japanese-style peony with a bright golden center, ‘Sword Dance’ creates a bold and striking contrast in floral arrangements. Its large, open blooms make it an eye-catching choice for dramatic bouquets and centerpiece designs. 

This variety pairs well with softer hues like blush and ivory to balance its intensity. ‘Sword Dance’ is perfect for adding a touch of elegance and depth to wedding bouquets and luxury floral displays.

32. Do Tell

‘Do Tell’ is a soft pink Japanese peony with a frilly, rose-pink and gold stamen center, giving it a delicate and intricate appearance. Its two-tone contrast makes it a standout flower in pastel-themed arrangements. 

This variety pairs beautifully with other soft florals like lisianthus and baby’s breath for a dreamy, garden-inspired bouquet. Its airy, elegant structure adds a whimsical touch to cascading and organic floral designs.

33. Sunny Girl

A rare, bright yellow peony with fully double blooms, ‘Sunny Girl’ brings warmth and brightness to floral compositions. Its golden hue is unique among peonies, making it a sought-after choice for vibrant summer and spring bouquets. 

This variety pairs well with soft pinks, creams, and greens to create a balanced, cheerful arrangement. With its large, full blooms, ‘Sunny Girl’ is ideal for eye-catching centerpieces.

34. Elsa Sass

A pure white, fully double peony with densely packed petals, ‘Elsa Sass’ exudes classic beauty and sophistication. Its soft, rounded bloom makes it a perfect addition to wedding bouquets and elegant floral arrangements. 

This variety pairs well with blush pinks and silvery foliage, creating a timeless and graceful look. ‘Elsa Sass’ is an excellent choice for formal events and luxurious floral installations.

35. Coral Sunset

One of the most popular coral peonies, ‘Coral Sunset’ is a semi-double bloom that opens in a rich coral hue before fading to peach and soft yellow. Its stunning color transition adds depth and movement to floral arrangements. 

This variety pairs beautifully with whites and warm pastels, making it perfect for lively and romantic bouquets. Its sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms make it a top choice for summer floral designs.

36. Honey Gold

A soft white peony with a golden-yellow center, ‘Honey Gold’ offers a beautiful blend of warmth and elegance. Its two-tone contrast makes it a standout in delicate, pastel-themed arrangements. 

This variety works well with pale pink roses and cream-colored blooms for a soft, ethereal look. ‘Honey Gold’ adds a touch of warmth to classic wedding bouquets and spring floral displays.

37. Big Ben

A bold, deep crimson-red peony with large, full blooms, ‘Big Ben’ is perfect for adding drama to floral designs. Its rich, velvety petals make it an ideal focal flower in sophisticated arrangements. 

This variety pairs well with dark greenery and soft pastels for a balanced, luxurious aesthetic. ‘Big Ben’ is perfect for elegant evening events and romantic bouquets.

38. Miss America

A semi-double white peony with a vibrant yellow center, ‘Miss America’ is known for its classic beauty and soft, airy appearance. Its open bloom style allows for a delicate, graceful effect in floral arrangements. 

This variety blends well with pastel peonies and lush greenery, making it perfect for natural, garden-inspired designs. ‘Miss America’ is a timeless choice for bridal bouquets and classic wedding centerpieces.

39. Red Charm

A deep, rich red peony with densely packed petals, ‘Red Charm’ is one of the most luxurious and dramatic peonies available. 

Its large, bomb-shaped blooms make it an excellent choice for striking bouquets. This variety pairs well with white and blush flowers to create contrast or stands alone for a bold, monochromatic arrangement. 

‘Red Charm’ is ideal for formal events, luxury floral designs, and Valentine’s-themed bouquets.

40. Paula Fay

A vibrant, hot pink peony with semi-double blooms, ‘Paula Fay’ adds a fun and energetic pop of color to floral arrangements. Its bold petals and golden center create a striking contrast that works well in modern and summer-themed bouquets. 

This variety pairs beautifully with corals, peaches, and whites for a fresh and lively composition. ‘Paula Fay’ is perfect for contemporary floral designs and cheerful, garden-inspired arrangements.

41. Raspberry Sundae

This soft pink and cream peony with hints of yellow looks as delightful as its name suggests. ‘Raspberry Sundae’ has full, ruffled petals that give it a sweet and romantic appearance, making it a favorite for wedding bouquets. 

Its pastel tones blend beautifully with blush roses and white hydrangeas. This variety is perfect for vintage, whimsical, and pastel-colored floral arrangements.

42. Moon of Nippon

A pure white Japanese-style peony with a bright golden center, ‘Moon of Nippon’ offers a striking contrast that works well in elegant floral designs. Its simple yet refined appearance makes it a great choice for minimalist and modern bouquets. 

This variety pairs beautifully with soft pinks and greens for a fresh, balanced aesthetic. ‘Moon of Nippon’ is ideal for formal events and timeless floral arrangements.

43. Top Brass

A triple-layered peony with white outer petals, a yellow middle, and a creamy center, ‘Top Brass’ is a unique and luxurious choice for floral arrangements. Its multi-tonal effect adds dimension and texture, making it an excellent focal flower. 

This variety pairs well with soft-colored blooms and cascading greenery for an elegant, full-bodied bouquet. ‘Top Brass’ is a standout choice for high-end event floral designs.

44. Fairy’s Petticoat

A delicate blush pink peony with soft, feathery petals, ‘Fairy’s Petticoat’ exudes a whimsical and fairy-tale-like charm. Its light and airy bloom make it a great addition to romantic, pastel-colored floral arrangements. 

This variety pairs beautifully with baby’s breath, lisianthus, and soft greenery for a dreamy effect. ‘Fairy’s Petticoat’ is perfect for ethereal wedding bouquets and feminine floral designs.

45. Largo

A rich pink peony with large, double blooms, ‘Largo’ brings a sense of boldness and vibrancy to floral compositions. Its deep color pairs well with whites, creams, and purples for a striking contrast. 

This variety has a long vase life, making it a fantastic choice for event florals and dramatic centerpieces. ‘Largo’ is perfect for creating eye-catching, bold floral arrangements.

How Many Types Of Peonies Are There?

Peonies are a vast genus with over 30 species and thousands of cultivars. This diversity spans the three main categories of herbaceous, tree, and Itoh peonies, offering endless options for gardens and floral designs.

How To Use Different Peony Types In Arrangements

Each type of peony brings something unique to floral arrangements:

• Romantic Bouquets: Pair soft-coloured peonies like Sarah Bernhardt or Bowl of Beauty with roses and eucalyptus for weddings.
• Modern Centerpieces: Use bold hues like Red Charm or Coral Charm alongside greenery for a striking display.
• Seasonal Gifts: Choose fragrant varieties like Festiva Maxima for birthdays or anniversaries.

Conclusion On The Different Kinds Of Peonies

Peonies are a symbol of beauty, love, and prosperity, and their versatility makes them a favourite for both gardens and floral arrangements. Whether you’re drawn to the romantic charm of Sarah Bernhardt peonies or the bold elegance of Bartzella Itoh peonies, there’s a variety to suit every taste.

At Windflower Florist, we bring the magic of peonies to life in every arrangement. With our same-day delivery, you can enjoy fresh, vibrant peonies whenever needed. 

Explore our flower collection today, and let us help you celebrate life’s special moments with timeless elegance!

Frequently Asked Questions About Different Types Of Peonies

How Many Types Of Peonies Are There?

Over 30 species and thousands of cultivars are classified into herbaceous, tree, and Itoh categories.

Which Peonies Are Best For Gardens?

Herbaceous peonies are a popular choice for gardens due to their hardiness and stunning blooms.

Can All Peonies Be Used In Bouquets?

Yes, all peony types can be used in bouquets. However, herbaceous and Itoh peonies are preferred for their durability and long-lasting blooms.

Does Windflower Florist Offer Peony Arrangements?

Absolutely! We craft bespoke peony arrangements for any occasion, with same-day delivery available.