Peonies are sort of magical. The billowing ruffled petals, their aroma, and the pale, dreamy tones of color have firmly planted them on the map of the modern flower industry and gifting practices.
While peonies exist in modern flower culture, they have a long history behind them. From being treasured in imperial Chinese gardens, to symbolizing romance in Victorian times, to becoming a summertime favorite, they are often featured in weddings, home decor, and simply as thoughtful gifts.
In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know about peonies: seasonal flower care, their historical symbolism, and how to use them in stunning arrangements.
The Seasonality of Peonies: When and Why They Bloom
Peonies are one of those flowers that feel extra special, mostly because they don’t stick around for long. Their natural season is short, blooming only from late spring to early summer, usually around May and June. Depending on where they’re grown and the type of peony, some might pop up a little earlier or later, but overall, their window is brief. And that’s part of their charm!
Because they’re only available for a short time, peonies feel like a seasonal treat. Florists harvest them just before the buds open (when they’re still soft and squishy, like a marshmallow!) so they bloom perfectly in your vase. The whole process, from farm to home, is timed just right to keep them fresh and long-lasting.
That’s why seasonal flower care matters so much with peonies. It helps you enjoy every beautiful moment while it lasts.
The Symbolism of Peonies: What They Really Mean
Peonies are more than just gorgeous; they carry centuries of meaning behind those fluffy petals. They’ve been tied to love, romance, good luck, and emotional depth, which is why they’re a favorite in weddings and heartfelt gifts.
In Chinese culture, peonies have been referred to as the "king of flowers." Pink varieties have been especially symbolic of prosperity, honor, and good fortune for hundreds of years. Royal gardens held many of them, and they've always been a symbol of respect and a sign of real wealth. During the Victorian era, pink peonies had especially become symbolic of unspoken love and shyness and became a favorite of secret admirers.
While white peonies feel classic and pure, pink peonies offer warmth, grace, and feminine strength. They’re perfect for celebrating someone special, think Mother’s Day, anniversaries, or simply telling someone, “I’m thinking of you.”
With their lush appearance and symbolic roots, gifting peonies resembles a gift of a rare moment. Their soft, plump form symbolizes emotional freedom, and their short blooming period makes them a reminder of appreciating beauty while it’s there.
Flower Care: Keeping Your Peonies Perfect
Want your peonies to look stunning for days? It all starts with the right flower care.
Prepping for the Vase: First Steps Matter
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Trim the stems at an angle under water to help them drink better.
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Remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline to keep things clean.
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Use a clean vase filled with fresh, room-temperature water.
Prolonging the Bloom: Environmental Tips
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Keep peonies out of direct sunlight and away from heaters or vents.
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Add flower food and change the water every two days.
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Want to slow down the bloom? Pop them in the fridge overnight to “pause” them.
Reviving Tired Blooms
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Soak droopy blooms in warm water for 20–30 minutes to perk them up.
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Gently peel off the outer “guard” petals for a fuller, prettier display.
Warning Signs to Watch For
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Drooping stems or brown petal edges mean they need fresh water or trimming.
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Petal shedding? They’re nearing the end. Enjoy the beauty while it lasts!
Want to learn more? Read our guide on how to keep flowers fresh for longer.
Styling Peonies: Arrangement Ideas for Every Occasion
It's remarkably easy to style a vase of peonies! Here are a few of our suggestions to get you underway, no expert florist experience needed.
Date Night: Pink Peonies & Blush Roses
Pair pink peonies with soft & romantic blush roses for a classic design. Stick to monochrome pinks and creams for a look that's light and dreamy, with layered tones that feel casual yet elegant.
Summertime Favorites : Peonies + Ranunculus
Looking for layering and luxury? Grouping peonies with ranunculus creates bulk and texture. The streamlined arrangement is beautiful for editorial use or luxury gifting. One of these short vases or a handheld arrangement creates an even more impactful design.
Solo Statement: Pink Alone
Sometimes, nothing more is needed. Let those peonies speak for themselves. A peony-only arrangement may be dazzlingly beautiful. Get a short, wide vase as a foil to their huge blossoms, and follow seasonal flower care tips to make them look fresh and plump.
Gifting with Meaning: When to Send Peonies
There’s something about peonies that feels like a hug in flower form. They’re ideal for life’s tender, joyful moments: Mother’s Day, welcoming a new baby, weddings, or celebrating a romantic milestone. Their soft color and plush form also make them perfect for “just because” gifts, whether it’s self-love, friendship, or sending a little light someone’s way.
Want to make it even more meaningful? Match your message to the flower’s symbolism. Peonies stand for love, grace, and good fortune. Whether you're saying "I appreciate you" or "you’ve got this," your words will resonate even more when paired with these blooms.
And don’t forget: with the right seasonal flower care, your bouquet will look fresh for longer and feel just as thoughtful even after days. When the moment calls for something heartfelt, peonies always deliver.
Why Fresh Sends is Your Go-To for Peonies
When it comes to sending peonies, Fresh Sends makes it simple, beautiful, and memorable. Our curated, seasonal collections feature premium blooms, like lush, fresh-cut peonies, delivered right when they’re at their best. Thoughtfully packaged and backed by a freshness guarantee, each delivery feels like a gift, not just a bouquet.
What sets Fresh Sends apart is our design-first approach. From the modern wrapping to the customizable message cards, every detail feels intentional and personal. No generic bouquets here.
And since peonies have a short bloom season, timing matters. We update our floral offerings with the seasons so you can catch pink peonies at their peak. Don’t wait too long, they disappear before you know it!
Plus, with expert seasonal flower care and attention, every order arrives fresh and made to last.
Embrace the Peony Moment
Peonies aren’t just pretty flowers. They carry real meaning: full of emotion, love, grace, and good fortune.
With a little seasonal flower care, they can last longer than expected, giving you more time to enjoy their beauty. Whether you’re styling them at home or sending them to someone special, pink peonies are easy to love and hard to forget.
They’re perfect for life’s big and small moments, romantic gestures, new beginnings, or simply saying, “I’m thinking of you.” You don’t need a reason, just enjoy peonies this season.
So go ahead, send a little joy today. Discover the season’s most elegant peonies from Fresh Sends, and share the beauty while they’re still in bloom.