Salmon Chiffon Peony

The ‘Salmon Chiffon’ Peony (Paeonia ‘Salmon Chiffon’) is an early-blooming, semi-double herbaceous peony with lush, coral-salmon-pink petals that fade gently to peach or shell pink as they age. Its open, airy form and central golden stamens give it a soft, romantic vibe. With strong stems, fragrant blooms, and early-season flowering, this variety brings both beauty and structure to northern perennial gardens.

Key Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Paeonia ‘Salmon Chiffon’

• Common Name: Salmon Chiffon Peony

• Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial

• Peony Type: Semi-double

• Hardiness Zones: 3–8

• Height: 30–36 inches (75–90 cm)

• Spread: 24–36 inches (60–90 cm)

• Bloom Time: Early spring (typically late May to early June in Zone 3)

• Flower Color: Rich salmon to coral-pink, aging to soft peachy tones

• Fragrance: Light to moderate, sweetly floral

• Foliage: Glossy, mid-green leaves that stay attractive all season

Sun Requirements

• Best in full sun (6+ hours per day)

• Tolerates light shade, but full sun maximizes blooms

Soil Needs

• Prefers well-drained, fertile loam

• Amend soil with compost or aged manure prior to planting

• Avoid heavy clay or soggy areas

• Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5–7.5)

Watering Needs

• Keep soil evenly moist during spring and bloom season

• Allow top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings

• Reduce watering after bloom when foliage matures

Planting & Spacing

• Plant in fall (best for root establishment in Zone 3), or in early spring from containers

• Set eyes (buds) 1–2 inches below the soil surface

• Spacing: 2–3 feet apart to allow for mature size and airflow

Maintenance

• Deadhead spent flowers to direct energy to the root

• Leave foliage intact until it yellows in fall — it nourishes the roots

• Cut back to the ground after frost and dispose of debris to prevent disease

• Apply a winter mulch after the ground freezes in Zone 3, and remove in spring

Fertilizing

• Feed in early spring with a balanced (10-10-10) fertilizer

• Side-dress with compost or bone meal for added bloom support

• Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with nitrogen

Pests & Diseases

• Generally resistant to most pests and diseases

• Watch for:

  • Botrytis blight (gray mold) in wet or crowded conditions

  • Thrips or aphids on new growth

• Ensure good spacing and air circulation

Wildlife & Companion Benefits

• Attracts pollinators like bees

• Ants on buds are common and harmless

• Deer and rabbit resistant

• Companion plants:

  • Siberian iris

  • Baptisia

  • Nepeta (catmint)

  • Foxglove

  • Lady’s mantle (Alchemilla mollis)

Garden Uses

• Early-season bloom anchor

• Romantic cottage gardens

• Cut flower borders

• Accent or specimen planting

• Combines beautifully with mid- and late-season peonies for continuous bloom

Special Notes

• ‘Salmon Chiffon’ is valued for its rare coral coloring, which is hard to find in peonies

• Works wonderfully in bridal or pastel-themed arrangements

• A top pick for Zone 3 gardeners wanting an early bloomer with a warm, inviting hue