The ‘Bella Donna’ peony is a celebrated perennial, gracing gardens with abundant, fragrant blossoms. Its captivating charm makes it a favored choice for adding elegance and classic beauty to landscapes. This variety is admired for its striking floral display, which transforms throughout its bloom cycle, offering dynamic visual interest.
Understanding Bella Donna Peony
The ‘Bella Donna’ peony (Paeonia lactiflora ‘Bella Donna’) is distinguished by its large, rose-like double flowers, measuring around 15 centimeters (6 inches) in diameter. These blooms unfurl in a delightful pink, which gradually softens as they mature. Many petals develop carmine-red edges, creating a stylish picotee effect.
A classic peony fragrance emanates from these blossoms. ‘Bella Donna’ flowers profusely in late spring to early summer, marking it as a mid-season to late-season bloomer. The plant forms a substantial bush, reaching a mature height of approximately 70 to 95 centimeters (28 to 38 inches) with dark green foliage. This robust growth habit makes it well-suited for mixed borders or as a focal point in a cottage garden design.
Planting Bella Donna Peony
Successful establishment of a ‘Bella Donna’ peony begins with careful site selection. These plants prefer a permanent location that receives full sun for at least six hours daily, though partial shade can be tolerated in hotter climates. Adequate air circulation around the plant is beneficial, and it should be situated away from other trees or shrubs to prevent competition for moisture and nutrients.
Soil preparation is important for healthy growth. ‘Bella Donna’ peonies thrive in well-drained, deep, and fertile soil. While they tolerate various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure significantly improves drainage and enriches the soil. An ideal soil pH for peonies ranges from slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.5.
When planting, ensure the peony’s “eyes”—the small, reddish buds on the root crown—are positioned no more than 3 to 5 centimeters (1 to 2 inches) below the soil surface. Planting too deeply is a common reason for a peony failing to bloom. The best time to plant bare-root ‘Bella Donna’ peonies is in the fall, allowing them to establish their root system before winter dormancy. Planting at least six weeks before the ground freezes provides sufficient time for root development.
Caring for Bella Donna Peony
Ongoing care for ‘Bella Donna’ peonies ensures their continued vigor and abundant flowering. Regular watering is important, particularly during dry spells and throughout the active growing season, to prevent the soil from drying out completely. However, avoid overwatering, as consistently soggy conditions can lead to root issues.
Fertilization supports robust growth and flower production. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges, and again in summer. Incorporating organic amendments like blood and bone meal or well-rotted compost also provides necessary nutrients. Top-dressing with dolomite lime in winter can maintain optimal soil conditions.
Providing support for the heavy, double blooms is often necessary to prevent stems from bending or breaking, especially after rainfall. Peony support rings or stakes can be placed early in the growing season before the plants reach their full height. After the flowers fade, deadhead spent blooms by removing the flower stems to redirect the plant’s energy towards root development rather than seed production.
The foliage of ‘Bella Donna’ peonies should remain on the plant until it naturally yellows and dies back in the fall. This process is important as the leaves photosynthesize and store energy in the roots for the following year’s blooms. For winter preparation, especially in colder climates, a thick layer of mulch applied over the plant’s crown in late fall provides insulation and protection. Peonies require a period of cold dormancy, at least three frosts, to set flower buds for the next season.
Addressing Common Bella Donna Peony Issues
A common concern for peony growers is a lack of blooming, which often stems from incorrect planting depth. Other factors contributing to poor flowering include the plant being too young, excessive nitrogen fertilization promoting foliage over flowers, or insufficient winter chilling. Overcrowding can also reduce bloom production.
Fungal diseases, such as botrytis blight (also known as gray mold), can affect ‘Bella Donna’ peonies, causing buds to blacken and fail to open. This condition thrives in wet, cool conditions. To manage it, remove all affected plant material promptly and ensure good air circulation around the plant. In spring, a fungicide labeled for botrytis can be applied weekly from the emergence of new growth until blooming.
While ants are frequently observed on peony buds, they are harmless to the plant. These insects are attracted to the sweet nectar produced by the developing flower buds. They do not damage the flowers or inhibit blooming, and their presence is not a cause for concern. Healthy, well-cared-for plants are generally resistant to severe pest infestations.