Peonies are prized for their large, fragrant blooms and impressive longevity. These robust perennials can thrive for decades. The presence of rabbits presents a common challenge for many home gardeners, as they frequently browse on tender vegetation.
Are Peonies Palatable to Rabbits?
The short answer is that peonies are widely considered a rabbit-resistant plant, meaning they are generally avoided by these common herbivores. Rabbits, like deer, tend to bypass the mature foliage and stems of the herbaceous peony plant. This avoidance behavior saves the gardener from the extensive damage seen on more palatable plants like tulips or hostas.
While established peonies are not a preferred food source, occasional nibbling can occur under specific conditions. Young, newly emerging shoots in early spring are softer and more succulent, making them slightly more appealing. Damage is most likely to happen when a rabbit population is high or when other, more desirable food sources become scarce. Tree peonies, which have woody stems, can sometimes experience damage to their bark during the winter months.
The Chemical Defense of the Peony Plant
Rabbits typically leave peonies alone due to the plant’s sophisticated chemical defense system. Peonies contain secondary metabolites, compounds that function as protection against herbivores. These include various bitter-tasting alkaloids and glycosides.
One specific compound is paeonol, which contributes to the plant’s natural toxicity. For small mammals like rabbits, ingesting these compounds can lead to symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal distress and diarrhea to tremors. The unpleasant taste and toxic properties act as a powerful deterrent.
Rabbits are highly sensitive to bitter flavors and learn quickly from negative feeding experiences. The inherent bitterness of the peony’s tissues signals that the plant is unpalatable or unsafe for consumption. This chemical warning system ensures that most rabbits move on to a less chemically defended food source.
Protecting Peonies from General Garden Pests
Since rabbits rarely target mature peonies, protection focuses on vulnerable new growth or deterring other garden pests. For young or tree peonies, which are susceptible to winter bark damage, a physical barrier is a reliable option. Wrapping the base of the plant with hardware cloth or chicken wire prevents gnawing damage during winter.
Gardeners can also apply taste deterrent sprays that utilize compounds like capsaicin or putrescent egg solids to make the plant surface unappealing. These deterrents must be reapplied frequently, especially after rain, to maintain their effectiveness against browsing animals. Removing potential hiding spots, such as dense brush piles or low-hanging debris near the garden, can also make the area less attractive to rabbits.