It is Memorial Day and prime time for glorious peony blooms. From the editorial of the Des Moines Register (link below), the tradition of placing home-grown peonies on graves goes back to the Civil War and Decoration Day.
The Karl Rosenfield variety is classic with large heavy blooms which are unfortunately doubled over after a heavy rain. The blooms of Virginia Dare and Sword Dance are much lighter and put on a fabulous show.
Many homeowners will mow the foliage back. Peonies and their foliage is a great addition to perennial flower beds because it holds its own during the summer months.
These beautiful varieties were photographed today.
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20130527/OPINION03/305270036/?odyssey=nav%7Chead
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