The Stunning Peony White Towers Variety: A Fragrant White Double Bloom

The Stunning Peony White Towers

Peonies are beloved garden flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. They are known for their large, lush blooms that come in a variety of colors like white, pink, red, and yellow. One striking peony variety is the White Towers cultivar, which stands out with its snowy white petals and impressive height.

Overview of Peony White Towers

Peony 'White Towers' (Paeonia lactiflora 'White Towers') is a herbaceous perennial in the family Paeoniaceae. It is one of the taller varieties of garden peonies, growing 3-4 feet tall when in bloom. The flowers are double blooms with many layers of petals opening to 4-6 inches in diameter. They emerge a pristine white and retain their pure snowy color throughout their bloom time. The flowers are wonderfully fragrant with a sweet, lingering scent.

This peony variety blooms in late spring, with sturdy stems holding up the flower heads nicely. It makes an exceptional cut flower. The bushy plants have deep green, divided foliage that provides nice structure and backdrop to the flowers. 'White Towers' does best in full sun and average, well-draining soil. It is low maintenance and does not require staking if grown properly.

Growing Conditions for White Towers Peony

Here are some tips for successfully growing Peony White Towers:

• Plant in a location with full sun. Peonies need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Choose a spot with fertile, well-draining soil. Amend clay soils with compost to improve drainage.
• Give plenty of space, at least 3 feet between plants. Peonies have broad root systems.
• Plant the root crowns 2-3 inches below the soil surface.
• Provide 1 inch of water per week during the first year to establish roots.
• Mulch plants to retain soil moisture and control weeds.
• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer or compost.
• Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming. Leave some for seed pods.

Using Peony White Towers in the Landscape

Peony White Towers makes a stunning focal point in borders, cottage gardens, and cutting gardens. Here are some tips for using it in the landscape:

• Plant in groups of 3-5 for a fuller effect and more fragrance.
• Mass in a perennial or mixed border surrounded by smaller plants like coral bells, salvia, and catmint.
• Grow in a designated cutting garden and enjoy fresh bouquets.
• Plant near walkways where the fragrance can be appreciated.
• Surround with ornamental grasses like maiden grass for texture contrast.
• Use as a specimen plant in a prominent location like near an entryway.
• Plant along a fence or property line to take advantage of its tall stature.

Caring for White Towers Peonies

Peony White Towers is relatively easy care once established. Here are some tips for keeping it looking its best:

• Water 1-2 inches per week, providing more during dry spells.
• Watch for fungal issues and treat promptly if needed.
• Stake plants if they begin to flop over, or give them a wire ring for support.
• Prune out any diseased growth promptly.
• Cut back stems after flowering for tidier appearance.
• Divide congested plants every 3-5 years in fall.
• Apply 2-3 inches of mulch in fall to protect roots.
• Remove spent flowers to prevent seed pod formation.

Notable Attributes of Peony White Towers

Some of the top reasons to grow Peony White Towers include:

• Height - It has a commanding presence at 3-4 feet tall.
• Double blooms - The pompom like flowers are elegantly ruffled.
• Pure white color - The flowers open snowy white and stay that hue.
• Fragrance - Has a lovely, sweet peony scent.
• Prolific bloomer - Produces many long-lasting blooms when happy.
• Good cut flower - Blossoms last over a week in arrangements.
• Compact form - Doesn't require staking when grown well.

Companion Plants for White Towers Peony

Here are some great options for companion plants for Peony White Towers:

• Catmint - Pretty blue flowers complement the white blooms.
• Coral bells - Low-growing with tidy foliage in a nice color contrast.
• Salvia - Spires of purple flowers bloom alongside the peony.
• Roses - Their elegance pairs nicely with peony blooms.
• Lady's mantle - Chartreuse flowers and ruffled foliage provide texture.
• Ornamental grasses - Contrast the peony's full, soft blooms with grassy texture.
• Lavender - Fragrant purple flowers continue the floral show after peonies fade.
• Astilbe - Feathery pink or red plumes create visual interest.

The Unique Beauty of Peony White Towers

Peony White Towers is a choice variety for any garden with its statuesque form, pristine white double blooms, and sweet fragrance. Plant this heirloom peony in a prominent spot to highlight its assets. With proper care, it will provide enjoyment for years to come, yielding bouquets of magnificent white flowers every spring.

FAQs

How do I plant Peony White Towers?

Plant the root crowns of Peony White Towers in early spring or fall, setting them 2-3 inches below the soil surface. Space plants 3 feet apart in a sunny spot with fertile, well-draining soil. Amend soil with compost and provide 1 inch of water per week while plants establish.

What is the best way to stake Peony White Towers?

Use a peony hoop or small tomato cage placed over White Towers peonies in early spring. This provides discreet support and prevents flopping without detracting from the beauty of the flowers.

How often should I divide White Towers peony plants?

Divide White Towers peonies every 3-5 years in the fall. This will maintain plant vigor and flower production. Carefully dig up mature plants, separating the root clumps gently with a sharp knife.

What companion plants work well with White Towers?

Try pairing White Towers peonies with salvias, catmint, coral bells, roses, ornamental grasses, astilbe, and lady's mantle. These all complement the full, white blooms nicely.

Is Peony White Towers deer resistant?

Deer tend to leave Peony White Towers alone, likely due to its strong fragrance. It can be grown in most regions including those with high deer populations.