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How big do peony bushes get?
- 18 November 2025
Peonies win hearts not only with their blooms but also with their strong, rounded presence in the garden. Before the buds open, the plants rise as neat mounds of foliage, creating structure long before flowering begins. If you wonder how large peony bushes typically grow, this guide will help you understand what to expect.
The blog in short
- Most Hybrid and Lactiflora peonies grow 70–100 cm tall and 80–100 cm wide
- Itoh peonies usually grow 60–90 cm tall and develop into broad, full plants
- Good spacing, sunlight and healthy soil help peonies reach their natural size
How big can peony bushes grow?
Peonies grow into full, rounded plants that add structure to the garden long after they finish blooming. Hybrid and Lactiflora varieties tend to develop into medium-sized bushes with a classic dome shape, while Itoh peonies stay slightly lower but grow wider and more robust. To make these size differences easy to compare at a glance, the table below provides a clear peony size overview.
| Peony Type | Height | Width | Growth Shape |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hybrid / Lactiflora | 70–100 cm | 70–100 cm | Rounded, full plants with a balanced dome-like form |
| Itoh | 60–90 cm | 80–120 cm (often wider) | Broad, sturdy plants with strong stems and dense foliage |
Why do peonies grow so full and rounded?
Peonies store large amounts of energy in their thick roots, which allows them to produce tall stems, heavy blooms and a mound of foliage afterward. That foliage is essential: it feeds the roots for the following year, helping the plant grow fuller and more robust over time. This rhythm explains why peonies bloom briefly yet keep their attractive shape for months.
How to help peonies grow to their full size
Peonies need space, ideally 80 to 100 centimeters, and plenty of sunlight to develop strong stems and full foliage. Well-draining soil prevents root issues, and correct planting depth supports reliable growth and flowering. Heavy-flowering varieties may benefit from discreet support rings to help them stay upright without losing their natural shape.
Which peony types grow the largest?
Hybrid and Lactiflora varieties grow into medium to large rounded bushes suited for borders, cutting gardens and pots. The premium selections offer the newest and strongest varieties with exceptional vigor and color. Itoh peonies, both standard and premium, develop into broad plants with dense foliage and sturdy stems, giving them a strong presence even after flowering.
Peonies grow bigger than you think
Peonies may not be towering shrubs, but they do grow into substantial, well-shaped plants. With sunlight, space and time, they reward you with strong growth and unforgettable blooms that bring beauty and structure to the garden.
Groot & Groot: order peonies in bulk
Would you like to know more about how big different peony varieties can grow or do you need advice on choosing the right types for your garden or production? Or are you curious about the availability and pricing of our peony flowers and peony roots? Feel free to contact us. Groot & Groot supplies peony flowers and peony cuttings in wholesale quantities. We supply worldwide to professional growers and (export) wholesalers. At Groot & Groot, we are able to grow peonies all year round, so we are not seasonal. You can email us at info@grootgroot.nl or call us at 0228-208050. We would be happy to help you.
