Paeonia lactiflora 'Tom Cat'

Overview & Features

• Paeonia lactiflora ‘Tom Cat’ is a bold herbaceous peony known for its rich, deep red to burgundy double blooms.

• Large, full flowers appear in late spring to early summer.

• Blooms may carry a light fragrance and make excellent cut flowers.

• Strong upright stems rise above lush, deeply divided green foliage.

• Typically grows to 80–90 cm in height and spread.

• Ideal for mixed borders, cottage gardens, and feature planting.

• Provides dramatic colour contrast among softer pastel perennials.

• Attractive to bees and other pollinators.

This variety is prized for its intense colour and classic peony form.

Planting & Positioning

• Plant in full sun for the best flowering performance.

• Tolerates light partial shade, though flowering may be reduced.

• Prefers fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.

• Avoid heavy or waterlogged soils, especially in winter.

• Improve soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

• Plant with the crown buds no more than 3–5 cm below the soil surface.

• Planting too deeply may reduce flowering.

• Choose a sheltered position protected from strong winds.

• Space plants 80–100 cm apart to allow for mature growth.

Peonies perform best when left undisturbed once established.

Watering, Feeding & Flowering

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots.

• Keep soil evenly moist during active growth and flowering.

• Avoid overwatering or winter waterlogging.

• Feed in early spring with a balanced fertiliser to support strong stems and blooms.

• Apply a mulch of compost in spring, keeping it clear of the crown.

• Flowering typically occurs in late spring to early summer.

• Remove spent blooms promptly to maintain a tidy appearance.

Consistent moisture during the growing season encourages larger, healthier flowers.

Pruning, Maintenance & General Care

• Deadhead flowers after blooming to prevent seed formation.

• Allow foliage to remain through summer to build energy for the following year.

• Cut back stems to ground level in autumn once foliage dies back naturally.

• Divide only if necessary in autumn, as peonies dislike frequent disturbance.

• Provide support for heavy blooms if required.

• Long-lived and generally low maintenance once established.

• Avoid moving plants unless absolutely necessary.

With full sun, fertile soil, and correct planting depth, Paeonia lactiflora ‘Tom Cat’ will deliver rich, dramatic blooms and dependable garden performance for many years.