The Short Season of Peonies
by Ariane ~ May 1, 2019
Peonies belonged to Monet’s most cherished flowers. Rare species were sent to him from Asia, needless to say that the painter was thrilled and took great care of them.
Their beautiful colors and fragile looking petals have still many admirers. The giant size of the flowers, their light scent and ornamental foliage make them must have in a garden.
At Giverny, they are combined with annuals and spring bulbs. The gardeners experiment new harmonies every year, which is a good tip to avoid monotony in your on garden. If by any chance you are not enthusiastic about the result, it doesn’t matter much because bulbs can be changed next year. And peonies flower for such a short time that the not-so-well-matching effect will not last.
November 3rd, 2019 at 10:22 pm
I’m researching the peonies in Monet’s garden for an article in the upcoming issue of American Peony Society Bulletin. I visited Giverny last April. Would you be able to assist me or direct me to someone who can identify what varieties and cultivars are currently being grown at Giverny? Thank you for any assistance you may be able to provide.
November 15th, 2019 at 3:42 am
Michael, the best person to ask is the head gardener Jean-Marie Avisard or Rémi Lecoutre, gardener responsible for the flower garden.
Please send your message at contact@fondation-monet.com
Best wishes for your article!