Sarah Bernhardt Peony - Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt'

Sarah Bernhardt Peony (Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt')

Named after the legendary French actress, this stunning peony variety delivers oversized blooms in romantic shades of pink that have captivated gardeners for over a century. The full, ruffled flowers emerge with deeper pink edges and release a delicate fragrance that lasts for more than a week. Buy Sarah Bernhardt peony online to add timeless elegance and reliable spring color to your landscape.

Landscaping Uses

This versatile perennial works beautifully as a garden focal point or blended into mixed borders alongside complementary spring bloomers. Plant it near entryways, along pathways, or grouped with other peony varieties for a stunning color display. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for smaller spaces while still delivering impressive visual impact, and its natural pest resistance means deer and rabbits will leave it alone.

Specifications

Height: 2–3 feet
Width: 2–3 feet
Growth Rate: Fast
Sun: Full sun (partial shade tolerated in southern and western regions)
Water: Moderate; approximately 1 inch weekly during growing season
Soil: Well-draining
USDA Zones: 3–8

Why Homeowners Love It

• Produces exceptionally large, full blooms with luxurious pink coloring and darker pink borders
• Low-maintenance once established with minimal fertilizer requirements
• Attracts beautiful butterflies while naturally repelling deer and rabbits
• Long vase life makes it perfect for elegant cut flower arrangements indoors

Planting & Care

Choose a location with full sun exposure, though partial shade works in warmer climates. Plant with the growth buds pointing upward, covering them with 1–2 inches of soil in northern regions or just 1 inch in southern areas. Water consistently to maintain moderate soil moisture throughout the growing season. Apply a 1-inch layer of compost or aged manure annually to support vigorous growth, and deadhead spent blooms after flowering. Cut the entire plant back to ground level after the first hard frost to direct energy into next season's show.