This genus is one where the number of
species to include is up for debate.
Estimates range from a low of 25 species to
a high of 40 depending on the
taxonomist
consulted. They are native to parts of
Asia,
Southern Europe and
Western North America.
Paeonia is of Greek
derivation from the name of the physician, Paeon.
Pluto changed Paeon into a flower in gratitude
for Paeon's successful cure after Hercules
defeated Pluto.
Care and Culture of Peonies -
Tree Peonies
