Our sizes & quality
What you receive
Every herbaceous and Itoh peony from Peonita is delivered as a bare-root division with 3–5 eyes. The eyes are the pink or red growth buds at the top of the root: each eye can grow into a stem next spring. Together with healthy, fleshy storage roots, 3–5 eyes give a strong start, more stems sooner and a plant that fills out quickly.
Why the number of eyes matters
- Fewer than 3 eyes: the plant needs several extra years to build up and flowers later. Many cheaper offers are this size.
- 3–5 eyes (Peonita standard): the professional grade for gardens. The plant establishes in its first year and usually flowers from the 2nd–3rd year.
- Each root also has a strong set of storage roots, which feed the new shoots in spring.
Checked by hand
We source our roots directly from Dutch growers. Before shipping, every root is checked by hand for firmness, health and its number of eyes. Peonita is a brand of Dutch-Bulbs B.V., a member of the BKD, the Dutch inspection service for flower bulbs and perennials.
Tree peonies
Tree peonies grow differently and are supplied as young woody plants. See the product page of each tree peony for details.
Delivered dormant, ready to plant
We ship peony roots from 1 October to 1 June, while they are dormant. They are packed in breathable packaging that keeps them fresh. Plant them as soon as possible after arrival, with the eyes 3–5 cm below the soil surface (2–5 cm for Itoh peonies). See our planting and care guide.
100% flowering guarantee
If a root does not meet our quality standard, flowers in a different variety, or does not grow or flower although you followed our planting instructions, we send a free replacement or refund you. See returns & refunds.