Introduction
Peonies are the most requested — and most misunderstood — wedding flower. Brides see them on Pinterest year-round, but peonies are only available for about 6-8 weeks in late spring. Understanding peony season, pricing, and alternatives is essential for every wedding florist.
Peony Season
Domestic peonies are available late April through early June in most US regions. The peak is typically mid-May.
| Source | Availability | Cost/Stem |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic (US) | Late April - Early June | $8-12 |
| Imported (Holland) | March - June | $10-15 |
| Imported (Southern Hemisphere) | October - December | $15-20+ |
| Out of season | N/A | Often unavailable at any price |
Key fact: Peonies cannot be forced or greenhouse-grown commercially. They require a winter dormancy period. This is why they are seasonal — there is no shortcut.
Top Peony Varieties for Weddings
| Variety | Color | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sarah Bernhardt | Classic pink | Large | Most common wedding peony |
| Festiva Maxima | White with red flecks | Large | Dramatic, traditional |
| Coral Charm | Coral to yellow gradient | Large | Changes color as it opens |
| Duchesse de Nemours | Pure white | Medium-Large | Elegant, clean |
| Bowl of Beauty | Pink with cream center | Large | Unique, anemone-like center |
| Karl Rosenfield | Deep red | Large | Bold, dramatic |
| Shirley Temple | Blush to white | Medium | Soft, romantic |
Peony Pricing Reality
Peonies are among the most expensive wedding flowers:
| Context | Price Per Stem |
|---|---|
| In-season wholesale (May) | $8-12 |
| Early season (April) | $10-15 |
| Imported off-season | $15-20+ |
| Out of season (Jul-Mar domestic) | Often unavailable |
| Retail markup (3.5x) | $28-52 per stem |
A peony bridal bouquet (15-20 stems) can cost $420-1,040 at retail. This is why managing expectations is critical.
When Peonies Are Unavailable: Best Alternatives
| Alternative | Why It Works | Season | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garden roses (Keira, Patience) | Similar fullness and shape | Year-round | $5.50-9/stem |
| Ranunculus | Layered petals, romantic feel | Nov-May | $3.50-5.50/stem |
| Double tulips | Peony-like fullness | Jan-May | $3-5/stem |
| Lisianthus | Ruffled, rose-like petals | Jun-Sep | $3-5/stem |
| Carnations (premium) | Modern varieties look lush | Year-round | $0.75-1.50/stem |
Pro Tip: When a bride says "I want peonies," she often means "I want full, lush, romantic flowers." Garden roses deliver this look year-round at 40-60% less cost.
Peony Design Ideas
Bridal Bouquet
- 15-20 peony stems in a hand-tied bouquet
- Mix 2-3 peony varieties for depth
- Add garden roses and ranunculus to stretch the budget
- Use eucalyptus or dusty miller as filler
Centerpieces
- Low arrangements with 5-7 peonies per centerpiece
- Mix with garden roses and seasonal greenery
- Peonies open dramatically — design for partially open buds
Working with Peonies
- Order 3-4 months ahead — Supply is limited
- Buy in tight bud — They open over 2-3 days in warm water
- Refrigerate at 34°F — Slows opening
- Warm room temperature opens them — Place in warm water 24-48 hours before the event
- They are fragile when fully open — Handle with extreme care at setup
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Conclusion
Peonies are magical — but they require planning, budget awareness, and honest conversations with clients. Know the season, stock alternatives, and guide brides toward realistic expectations. When peonies are available, they are worth every penny.
Related: Best Flowers for Spring Weddings | Wholesale Flower Pricing Guide | Flower Cost Calculator
