Tree vs Herbaceous Peonies: A Melbourne Guide to Blooms, Care and Styling

If you adore peony roses but feel unsure which type belongs in your garden or vase, you are not alone. Many Melburnians tell us they love the lush, ruffled blooms yet feel confused by “tree” and “herbaceous” labels, and they worry about climate, care and vase life. This guide answers those concerns with clarity and calm so you can enjoy peonies beautifully.

What makes peonies so joyful?

A beautiful example of a Herbaceous Peony Rose

Peonies are renowned for generous petals, rich colour and a sense of celebration. They bring instant theatre to gardens and interiors, and they are surprisingly resilient once established. At Kate Hill Flowers we work with premium, seasonally sourced peony roses to ensure every bouquet feels indulgent and impeccably fresh.

Tree vs herbaceous: the essential difference

A white Tree Peony in full bloom

• Tree peonies form woody, deciduous shrubs. Their framework remains above ground year-round, creating sculptural winter interest. Mature plants can reach around 1.5 metres in height and width.

• Herbaceous peonies are perennials that die back to underground crowns each winter and re-sprout in spring, forming a leafy clump around 0.5 to 1 metre tall.

Flowering time in southern Australia

In and around Melbourne, tree peonies generally bloom first in late spring, with herbaceous peonies following roughly one to two weeks later. Planting a mix extends the overall display across the short but magical peony season.

Bloom form and colour

Both types come in single forms with visible golden stamens and double forms that create sumptuous, dome-shaped blooms. Colours range from refined whites and blush to vibrant pinks and reds. Tree peonies extend the palette further into deep purples, coral and buttery yellow, with some striking bicolours.

Where peonies thrive

A crop of pre-bloomed herbaceous Peonies

Peonies favour cool winters. In Australia they perform best in Tasmania, Victoria and elevated districts. Around Melbourne, position plants where they receive morning sun and protection from the strongest afternoon rays.

Soil

• Tree peonies like fertile, well-drained soil and good air flow to discourage fungal issues.

• Herbaceous peonies tolerate a range of soils but appreciate rich, heavier loam or clay that does not stay waterlogged.

Spacing

Give tree peonies space from competing roots. Allow at least 1.5 metres between tree peonies and keep three metres from large trees so light and moisture are not stolen.

Care and maintenance made simple

Tight bunches of cut Herbaceous peonies just in from the market

Herbaceous peonies

Consider using a discreet wire support to hold heavy double blooms upright. Allow foliage to die down naturally in late autumn before you clean up and tidy the clump.

Tree peonies

Prune only to remove dead or damaged wood. In late winter or early spring, top-dress with composted manure to feed the shrub ahead of flowering.

With the right start, peonies are long-lived and rewarding. Many clumps thrive for decades, becoming a treasured seasonal moment in the garden year after year.

Peonies as cut flowers: florist tips for longer vase life

A very tight Herbaceous Peony that has just been picked

Harvest time

Pick early in the morning while blooms are cool. Choose buds at the marshmallow stage: swollen, showing a hint of colour and soft to the touch.

Preparation

Cut stems to around 35–40 cm, strip lower foliage, and place into fresh, cool water without delay.

Cold storage of buds

To hold buds for a later event, wrap small groups in dry paper, lay them horizontally in a very cold fridge, and keep them dry with good air circulation. When ready, refresh the stem ends and place in room-temperature water. Blooms should begin to unfurl within hours.

Vase care

Use scrupulously clean vases, change water regularly, and keep flowers away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

A note on ants

If you spy ants on buds, do not worry. Some peony buds produce a little nectar that attracts them; they will not harm the flowers. Gently shake or rinse before bringing stems indoors.

Styling ideas: at home and in the garden

Our Zoey Bouquet is always a customer favourite

In vases

A tight trio of herbaceous peony stems in a slim cylinder feels modern and refined. For a more romantic look, cluster generous doubles in a wide-mouthed vase and let petals tumble naturally.

For weddings

Peonies bring instant luxury to bouquets, arbours and tablescapes. Browse our wedding flowers in Melbourne to see how we use peonies for timeless ceremony styling.

In the landscape

Tree peonies create focal points along a path or courtyard wall. Their branching silhouettes look beautiful in winter, even after leaves fall, so they earn their place year-round.

Which type should you choose?

Notice the more transparent, refined type of petal on the Tree Peony

There is no single winner. If you value sculptural shrubs with early flowers and exotic colours, choose tree peonies. If you want the classic cut-flower experience with reliable vase performance, pick herbaceous peonies. Many gardeners enjoy both for a longer, richer season. However you choose to enjoy them, our team can help you style peonies beautifully at home or for your next celebration.

Ready to bring peonies into your space?

Explore our Melbourne flower delivery for all same-day designs, or discover our luxurious peony gift bouquets. And You’re always welcome to call or visit our South Melbourne boutique for bespoke advice.

Kate x