Growing Non-GMO Sarah Bernhardt Peony Flower Bulbs
This variety of peony is primarily grown outdoors, as it thrives in garden settings with ample space and sunlight. Peonies, including Sarah Bernhardt, are typically planted in the fall, around late September to October, allowing them time to establish roots before the winter sets in. When planting, the eyes (buds) of the peony should be positioned 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface. If planted too deep, the peony may fail to bloom. This flower is a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 3-8, meaning it will return year after year in those regions, while in warmer zones, blooming may be less vigorous.
Soil conditions are crucial for peonies, as they prefer well-draining, rich soil with a pH that is neutral to slightly acidic (around 6.5 to 7.0). If the soil is too compacted or heavy, amending it with organic matter such as compost can improve drainage and fertility. Space plants 2 to 3 feet apart to give them enough room to grow and to ensure good air circulation, which helps prevent fungal issues. Sarah Bernhardt Peonies do best in full sun, requiring 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day to promote strong blooms. In warmer climates, some afternoon shade can help protect them from the heat, but too much shade will reduce flowering.
After the initial blooming, peonies do not generally re-bloom during the season, but deadheading spent flowers is still beneficial to improve the plant’s overall appearance and prevent energy from being wasted on seed production. For strong perennial blooming power, it's essential to give peonies time to establish; often, they don’t bloom much in their first year but improve with age. Dividing the plant every 10 to 15 years can also help rejuvenate older peonies and encourage more vigorous blooming.
Peonies require fertilization in early spring before new growth begins. A balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) or one specifically for flowering plants works well. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leaf growth at the expense of blooms. Regular watering is crucial during the growing season, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater, as peonies are prone to root rot if left in soggy conditions. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and keeps the soil cool, but avoid piling mulch directly against the stems.
To ensure the best health from year to year, cut back the foliage in the fall after it has died back, as this helps prevent the spread of disease. In colder zones, peonies benefit from winter protection. A light layer of mulch can protect roots from freezing, but it should be removed in spring to avoid crown rot.
Sarah Bernhardt Peony in the Flower Garden
The Sarah Bernhardt Peony is a versatile and showy flower often used as a focal point in garden beds or mass-planted for dramatic effect. Due to its height (around 2 to 3 feet), it can be used in borders or mid-to-back garden placements. Its large, ruffled, romantic, double blooms attract pollinators. It is generally deer- and rabbit-resistant, as most woodland creatures avoid peonies due to their bitter taste. The blooms are also fragrant, with a light, sweet scent that makes them ideal for cut flowers. They’re frequently used in floral arrangements and have a long vase life.
Harvesting the Sarah Bernhardt Peony
To harvest Sarah Bernhardt Peonies for cut flower arrangements, the best time to cut them is when the buds are in the "soft marshmallow" stage: when they feel soft to the touch but haven't fully opened. This ensures the flowers will open beautifully once indoors. Use clean, sharp shears to cut the stems in the morning when temperatures are cooler, and leave at least one-third of the foliage on the plant to support future growth. For maximum vase life, immediately place the cut stems in water and store them in a cool, dark place if you’re not using them immediately. Change the water every couple of days and trim the stems at an angle to maintain hydration, which can help extend the blooms' longevity to up to a week or more.
About Sarah Bernhardt Peony Garden Bulbs
Ingesting any part of the plant, including the stems, foliage, or flowers, can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This applies to pets, especially dogs and cats, who should be kept away from peonies to avoid accidental poisoning.
These large, heavily petaled blooms can reach 6-8 inches in diameter. They have a soft, ruffled appearance and create a luxurious, romantic look.
The Sarah Bernhardt Peony was bred in 1906 by the renowned French breeder Victor Lemoine and was named after the famous French stage actress Sarah Bernhardt, known for her dramatic performances and elegance. Much like the actress herself, this peony is celebrated for its show-stopping, glamorous appearance.
This variety has earned several accolades over the years. One notable award is the Award of Garden Merit (AGM) from the Royal Horticultural Society. This award recognizes plants that perform reliably well in gardens, are disease-resistant and have outstanding ornamental qualities.
Peonies, especially the Sarah Bernhardt variety, are known for their incredible longevity. Once established, they can thrive in the same location for 50 years or more with minimal care. This makes them a fantastic investment for gardeners looking to create a long-term, low-maintenance garden with reliable beauty year after year.
Stories From Our Gardeners
"To me, the Sarah Bernhardt peony is the poster child for peonies. Usually, when someone says that they like peonies, they are probably talking about this peony. The dense, pastel pink blooms are stunning and classic."
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