The ‘Koningin Wilhelmina’ peony is a classic herbaceous perennial, introduced in 1915 by Krelage and named after Dutch Queen Wilhelmina. Its robust nature and timeless beauty make it a popular choice for gardens. This peony provides a captivating floral display in spring and early summer.
Unique Characteristics of Koningin Wilhelmina Peony
The ‘Koningin Wilhelmina’ peony features large, fragrant double blooms. These flowers display a captivating color range, from pale to fuchsia-pink, often with paler or white petal edgings. They typically measure 13 to 20 cm in diameter.
Blooming mid-season, usually in May or June, this peony offers a sweet, strong fragrance. The plant forms bushy mounds of glossy, emerald-green foliage. At maturity, ‘Koningin Wilhelmina’ reaches a height of 70-80 cm (30-32 inches) and spreads up to 90-120 cm (3-4 feet) wide.
Optimal Planting Conditions and Steps
Peonies thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for abundant blooms. They can tolerate some afternoon shade in warmer climates. Choose a location sheltered from strong winds, as large blooms may require support. Avoid planting too close to trees or shrubs, as peonies do not compete well for resources.
Well-draining, fertile, humus-rich soil is important for healthy growth. ‘Koningin Wilhelmina’ peonies perform best in slightly alkaline soil, ideally with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. If your soil is acidic, adding lime can help raise the pH. Good air circulation around the plants also helps prevent fungal diseases.
When planting bare-root peonies, position the root so the “eyes” or growth points are 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm) below the soil surface. Planting too deeply is a common reason for a lack of blooms. Dig a generous hole, incorporating compost or organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage. Backfill gently, tamp the soil lightly, and water thoroughly.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, ‘Koningin Wilhelmina’ peonies are relatively low-maintenance and long-lived. Consistent deep watering is important, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging, as poorly drained soil can lead to root rot. Maintaining consistent moisture is key, as drought stress can reduce bloom production.
Fertilization should be approached thoughtfully, as excessive nitrogen promotes leafy growth at the expense of flowers. A balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied in early spring as new shoots emerge and again in the fall after blooming.
Deadhead spent blooms to maintain a tidy appearance. In the fall, after the first frost, cut back the foliage to 2-3 inches above the soil. Disposing of the clippings helps reduce the risk of overwintering pests and fungal diseases like Botrytis blight.
Addressing Common Issues
A ‘Koningin Wilhelmina’ peony may fail to bloom due to planting too deeply or insufficient sunlight. Young plants may also take a few years to establish. Over-fertilization with nitrogen can inhibit flower production, leading to lush foliage but few blooms.
Fungal diseases, particularly Botrytis blight (gray mold), are common in cool, wet conditions. This disease can cause young shoots to rot and buds to shrivel. Good air circulation and removing affected plant parts, especially old foliage in the fall, are important preventative measures.
Ants are often seen on peony buds but are harmless. They are attracted to the sweet nectar and do not damage the plant. While other pests like Japanese beetles or aphids can cause minor damage, peonies are generally resistant to most insect problems.