Paeoniaceae: Peony Family

California Peony – Paeonia californica

Blooms:

Jan–May

Plant Height:

35–75 cm

Flower Size:

Large

Origin:

Native

Habitat:

Chaparral and coastal scrub

Notes:

This has distinctive drooping, bowl-shaped flowers, either solitary or in small clusters.  The 5 petals are blackish and red, with pink or red margins.  They have numerous yellow stamens and 2–5 pistils.  Leaves are deeply lobed, 3–9 cm long, the upper surfaces dark green and the lower surfaces lighter.  It is the only member of this family found in the county, and one of only two in California.