'MERRY MAYSHINE' Peony (Paeonia x lactiflora 'merry mayshine')

A single, fragrant flower adorns each 26" stem of this medium-height peony.  'Merry Mayshine' opens with two layers of broad, well-shaped, bright-crimson petals surrounding a large cluster of bright golden-yellow stamens centered with red stigma. It is an attractive, early flower that catches the eye from a distance. Good plant habit, vigorous and fast spreading, a reliable bloomer with ample color on a stout clump. With flowers set close to the foliage canopy, the compact bush holds well against inclement weather. The very erect posture is unique among fern-leaf hybrids. Interesting, deeply cut, slender leaflets, the foliage reminiscent of fern-leaf peony but not as feathery. It is exceptionally well suited for the early flowering perennial border.

Zones 3-7.

Bare roots available only in the fall. 3/5-eye.