Early last summer I planted a tree peony in Mom's long flower bed. It got a bit of extra water but not much during the drought. To my surprise it survived and rewarded us with two large flowers that opened this week. I'll also admit that it didn't add much new growth but this is a slow grower in the best of times.

Tree peonies result when woody stems of a species originally found in Asia or hybrids thereof are grafted unto the vigorous roots of the common garden peony. For the sophisticated or specialist there are now Japanese, Chinese, European and American hybrids hiding somewhere in the marketplace.

They were known in China since the seventh century. They got to Europe several hundred years ago. The wealthy were adding them to their gardens in this country early in the twentieth century. As I said, Mom got one last summer and I have hopes for the near future.

This is a plant that takes several years to develop. It is even reported that juvenile flowers are not necessarily representative of the future flowers. Mom's first year bloom looked pretty good.

They are quite tough and not picky about soil as long as they don't have wet feet. They will grow in the sun and are quite happy in a bit of shade. I would guess that if they are protected from the hottest afternoon sun that the flowers will last longer. Also avoid windy spots, as the flowers are quite heavy.

When planting, I would strongly recommend an exception from the rules of horticulture that we generally follow. Think tomato. The deeper you plant them the better.

As I said, they are grafted. The graft should be planted several inches below ground level. This strengthens the stem, reduces the suckers from the regular root and, if the graft develops roots, provides a more vigorous plant.

If you are reading between the lines this will be one of your more expensive additions to your garden. When planted with the graft exposed you may risk the graft breaking when pets, children or the wind visits your garden. If the graft breaks you have just paid a premium for a common peony.

Apparently there are a huge number of cultivars that spread a bloom season from now into late June. Thinking about that is still beyond me. I'd be happy with any of them.

One final point. If your are interested, the Scott Arboretum at Swarthmore College has a collection of well over 100 varieties that is now showy and will remain so well into June. In all honesty that is a good visit any time of the year.