How a peony can become a family heirloom

Oxford’s definition of an heirloom is, “a valuable object that has belonged to a family for several generations.”

A peony fits that definition perfectly.

I have my Great Grandma Annie’s peonies and they are beyond special. For me, the fragrance and color of the blooms along with the velvety feel of the petals are unmatched. The photo above is Anna Schultz, my Great Grandma, tending to her peonies at her farm in Reeseville, WI. Below you’ll see another photo of one of her peony plants.

I have no idea of the specific variety but that’s not what’s important. Of all the peonies we have on the farm, it’s these no-names that have passed through four generations of our family so far that take the top spot for me as favorites.

I love the idea of gifting the heirloom peony for a special occation:

  • A new baby is born

  • Wedding day

  • First home purchased

  • Graduation

  • Anniversaries

  • Birthdays

  • Mother’s Day

Personally I love to give peony plants as gifts when a new baby is born. My hope is that when that baby is grown and either gets married, purchases a first home or has a child of his/her own, that peony will be divided and shared to the next generation.

On and on it goes and a family heirloom is created.

Download instructions on how to divide thsoe peonies for sharing with a loved one by clicking the button below.

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What is a peony “eye”?

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Why fall is the best time to plant peonies