Growing Peonies & Poppies in South Carolina

Herbaceous Peonies

• Hebaceous peonies include the common garden peony and its hybrids, hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8; the woodland peony (Paeonia obovata), hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8; and the Japanese peony, also hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. These peonies grow in South Carolina's USDA zones 7 through 8b, which encompasses most of the state except for a few warmer coastal areas. Woodland and Japanese peonies grow between 12 and 24 inches tall and prefer part shade (especially in warmer areas). Garden peonies thrive in full sun and grow 24 to 48 inches tall.

Tree Peonies

• Tree peonies are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8 and can grow in most of South Carolina. They thrive in full sun to light shade, preferring light shade in the afternoons and bloom in a range of colors and color mixes, from white to yellow, pink, red, orange and purple. Tree peonies grow 3 to 5 feet tall, with very large flowers. Itoh, or intersectional hybrid, peonies are crosses between tree and garden species. Generally hardy in the same zones (USDA 5 through 8) as the parent species, they can be also grown in South Carolina.

Perennial Poppy

• Among the most widely grown perennial poppies are oriental poppy and its hybrids. Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7, these poppies only grow successfully in the far northwestern corner of the state (Spartanburg area). However, some varieties may succeed in warmer areas, so it pays to check with a local cooperative extension agent. Oriental poppies are distinguished by their large flowers, decorative urn-shaped seedpods and tall stature (from 2 to 3 feet). They bloom in early summer in a range of colors, from white through pinks, reds and purples, sometimes with distinctive central blotches.

Annual Poppies

• Among the most frequently planted annual poppy is the corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas), which can be grown throughout South Carolina. Red corn poppies are sometimes known as "Flanders" poppies and were celebrated in a World War I-era poem. The species also includes "Shirley" poppies, which grow to 24 inches tall, with double flowers in a range of single and bicolored hues. Corn poppies grow quickly on slender stems and bloom in summer. To promote rebloom, remove spent flowers promptly. Corn poppies are prolific self-seeders as well, so leave a few flower heads to promote this trait.