Peonies: V8s of the flower world

It's a little known fact that the peony rose will guzzle through water
like no other cut flower. A vase with only five peony stems can drink up
to one litre of water every day.

However, once the stems are re-cut, the thirsty flowers will last in a
vase up to 10 days - just remember to top-up and change the water
regularly!

Peonies are a bit of a delicacy in New Zealand. Much like oysters or
whitebait, peonies are only in season for a short time, approximately
eight-to-ten weeks and this is why November is the perfect time to buy.

This feathered rose needs a frost to grow so they are mainly grown in
cooler climates.

Rodger Whitson, chairman of the New Zealand Peony Society, says "a cold
frost will help set the buds in the ground, encourage stem strength, and
even affects the colour quality of the peony."

Adjusting the temperature of the water in which the flowers are kept
will also alter how quickly the buds open.

"If you want peonies to open sooner, put them in warm water or in an
area that gets lots of sun. If you prefer your peonies to last the
distance, keep them in cold water and place them in cooler areas, such
as your hallway," says Rodger.

Peonies come in a variety of soft colours, from whites and creams, to
pale pinks and deep burgundies. Their pale colouring makes them the
perfect flower for weddings or other special occasions.

Scent boutique owner, Ingrid Pritchard, says the beauty of the peony is
that due to the size of the flower you don't need many to make a
statement.

"Peonies start as a tiny bud and, if left to mature, can easily grow to
the size of a dinner plate when in full bloom. They are a great addition
to any homebound vase. "

Originally from China, the peony has been used for centuries in
traditional Chinese art as a symbol of riches and honour.

And, for the Japanese, peonies are a common subject in male tattoos.
Used in conjunction with other motifs, connoting elements of strength
such as tigers and dragons, peonies became a masculine symbol associated
with a 'bad boy' attitude. This proves there's more to this soft,
willowy flower than meets the eye.