Paeonia cambessedesii

Germination

Sow directly in autumn or sow indoors at any time. Sow 5cm deep into prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Space seeds 25cm apart. Allow natural winter cold to offer ideal conditions for germination to occur in spring as the weather warms. If direct sowing cover seed with mesh or chicken wire to prevent animal attack. Indoors, surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost in 10-15cm pots. Propagate or place in a clear polythene bag. Ideal temp. 20°C. Germination takes 3 months approx., but can take up to a year. Do not discard seed tray prematurely. Once germinated move the pot to a cold place, 4°C, the fridge is ideal, until spring, 2-4 months. Prick-out as soon as you feel possible, this is a tap rooting plant, which dislikes root disturbance.

Growing

Prefers a deep, fertile, humus-rich soil which is moist but well-drained in a sheltered position. Prefers full or partial sun. May require support or staking. May be hardy in warmer regions of the UK, will require frost-free protection in winter.

Cultivation

Remove spent flowers as they fade. Cut the plant back after the foliage dies down in autumn.