Peony
Peony is a name of a genus that consists of 30 species of flowering plants that belong to the Paeoniaceae family. The plants are well-known for their huge and beautiful blossoms. Almost all species are native to Europe and Asia, and several of them are cultivated for their ornamental purposes as well as for the floral industry.
Peonies are divided into three groups: the Asian tree, the North American peonies, and the herbaceous European peonies. The European groups are commonly perennial plants that reach up to 1 meter in height. They are characterized by their large, shiny leaves that are much divided. The leaves are borne on annual stems that are produced by fleshy rootstocks. The plant produces single, rarely double, large flowers that usually are pink, white, rose, or deep crimson in color in early summer or late spring. The two varieties that are the most common for the gardens are the fragrant Chinese peony and the common European peony. Chinese peony has provided hundreds of varieties that are widely cultivated which differ from each other by the size, shape, colors, or even the number of petals and their surrounding.
Apart from the herbaceous varieties, peony may also occur as a shrubby plant that forms permanent woody stems. The plant reaches up to 1.8 meters in height. Their blooming season usually starts in late spring. Their flowers are usually lilac, violet, or red. These peonies grow best in the summer season, as they love sunny and dry weather. Horticultural varieties from this group have been developed from the Chinese P. suffruticosa. The hybrid varieties produce single or double flowers.
Peonies are commonly grown as ornamental plants in gardens and landscapes thanks to their scented, large flowers. They are also used in traditional medicines of Japan, China, and Korea. Their roots are used to treat convulsions. Its flowers are used to prepare a tea-time delicacy. Peony water, an infusion of peony petals, is a drink known since the Middle Ages. Peony petals may be used in salads and/or added to punches and lemonades.
Global peony production
According to figures from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), global production of peonies is estimated at around 1,000 tonnes per year. The vast majority of this production is in China, which accounts for an estimated 80% of the total. Other major producers include Japan, South Korea, the Netherlands, and the United States.
While peonies are grown in many parts of the world, the vast majority of global production takes place in China. This is due to a number of factors, including the country's large population and favorable climate for peony cultivation. Peonies have been grown in China for centuries, and the country has a long tradition of using these flowers in medicine, art, and other aspects of culture.
The Netherlands is another major producer of peonies, accounting for an estimated 10% of global production. The country has a long history of growing these flowers, and they are a popular choice for cut flowers and floral arrangements. Peonies grown in the Netherlands are typical of a higher quality than those grown in other parts of the world, due in part to the country's cooler climate.
The United States is also a significant producer of peonies, accounting for an estimated 5% of global production. Peonies grown in the United States are typically used for fresh-cut flowers and potted plants, as well as being exported to other countries. The climate in the United States is generally well-suited for peony cultivation, and the country has a number of growers who specialize in these flowers.
While China is by far the largest producer of peonies, other countries also play a role in global production. Japan, South Korea, and the Netherlands are all significant producers, and the United States also contributes a significant amount to the total. Peonies are a popular choice for cut flowers and floral arrangements, and they are also used in medicine, art, and other aspects of culture. With their long history of cultivation and use, peonies are likely to remain an important part of the global flower market for many years to come.