This is Not a Peony?

Have you ever seen a picture of a peony when they are out of season and wondered where it came from? You were probably looking at a garden rose and just didn't know it! They come in many varieties, colours and shapes. They can look very similar to a peony, and even have a similar price tag. They are an excellent choice if you are looking for peonies but it just isn't the right season!

This photo to the left is a garden rose variety called Baronesse, taken from one of my wholesalers websites - United Flower Growers. They are based out of British Colombia, Canada. It has the same size, frill, centre and fullness of a peony! It is very easy to mistake them for a peony in a photo, or even in person, to the untrained eye. Early on in my floral career I didn't know the difference, either.

Garden roses come in a larger variety of colours than peonies do - but not by much. They have a lot more varieties of pinks and whites than peonies do, as well as having yellows and some in purple tones. I have seen yellow peonies - but not any in purples. They come in some peach/orange tones as well!

So, why did I choose to make my blog post about garden roses this week? Many brides love the look of a peony, but their season is very short - May to late July or August, depending on the growing season/crops. During the off season, they can be imported from Alaska (I know, I was shocked at this when I heard it too!), but cost a pretty penny! They are normally a quite pricey stem, but even more when you get those import fees tacked on. So, if you love peonies but they are not in season during your wedding - take a peek at garden roses, you will not be disappointed!