Peonies are adored for their elegance, captivating fragrance, stunning colors, and symbolic significance. This renowned ornamental has been a favorite among florists, wedding planners, home decorators, gardeners, and flower enthusiasts. In this guide, you’ll delve into the meanings and symbolism behind these summer-blooming beauties.

In the language of flowers, peonies carry symbolic meanings of romance, compassion, good luck, prosperity, a happy marriage, and even bashfulness. In their native China, peonies are often referred to as the ‘queen of flowers’ and serve as the official state flower of Indiana.

Several stories surround the origin of the name ‘peony.’ Some suggest it stems from Paeon, the physician of the gods in Greek mythology, who was transformed into a peony plant by Zeus to save him from a jealous Aesculapius. Another myth involves a nymph named Paeonia, who, after catching Apollo’s attention, was turned into a red peony by an angered Aphrodite.

Regardless of their origins, peonies universally symbolize positive meanings, representing romance, compassion, good luck, prosperity, happy marriage, and bashfulness, depending on their color or variety.

Peonies hold great significance in various parts of the world, boasting a rich history in medicine and cultivation. Native to China, they were once considered the country’s national flower before the plum tree. During the Sui and Tang dynasties, peonies adorned the Imperial Palace, symbolizing honor and wealth. The city of Luoyang in China, known as the City of the Peony, houses the National Peony Garden and hosts an annual peony festival.

Beyond their cultural importance, peonies are a common sight at weddings, serving as decorations and appearing in bridal bouquets. They also mark the 12th wedding anniversary and hold the distinction of being the birth month flower for November.

In the Victorian era, flowers were used to convey messages, and peonies, with their elegance, held various symbolic meanings in floriography.

Yellow Peonies: Symbolizing new beginnings and good fortune, yellow peonies, with their various shades, are a thoughtful gift for a new homeowner or anyone in need of a cheerful boost. Notable varieties include Prairie Charm and Bartzella.

Red Peonies: With red symbolizing passionate love and romance, red peonies, such as the Red Robin variety, make a striking choice for expressing love and affection.

Pink Peonies: Recognized as a symbol of a happy marriage, honor, and fortune in Feng Shui, pink peonies are ideal for celebrating the 12th wedding anniversary or expressing love on special occasions. Notable varieties include Big Ben, Angel Cheeks, Myrtle Gentry, Gay Paree, Blaze, Do Tell, Bowl of Beauty, and Fairy’s Petticoat, with Birthday peonies being particularly fitting for celebrations.

White Peonies: While commonly associated with beauty, white peonies also represent shame, making them a sincere choice for apologies or asking for forgiveness. They are also a splendid choice for weddings, decor, or flower arrangements.

The allure of pink peonies extends beyond their physical beauty, making them a cherished and meaningful choice for various occasions.”