Paeonia 'Catharina Fontijn'

Paeonia 'Catharina Fontijn' – A Portrait of Soft Elegance

Experience the serene beauty of Paeonia 'Catharina Fontijn', a peony that exudes a quiet elegance with its soft, blush-pink blooms and subtle fragrance. This classic herbaceous peony cultivar enchants onlookers with its large, full double flowers, making it a beloved choice for both traditional and contemporary gardens.

Product Characteristics:

• Height: Attains a height of up to 90 cm, providing a stately presence that enhances garden landscapes.
• Spread: Grows to a spread of 60 cm, forming a lush, rounded bush that fills garden spaces with grace.
• Flower Colour: Features delicate blush-pink blooms that lighten to almost white at the edges, creating a gentle and inviting appearance.
• Flowering Period: Blooms profusely from late spring to early summer, timing its display perfectly to bridge the late spring gap and welcome the fullness of summer.
• Foliage: Boasts dark green, glossy leaves that create a striking contrast against its soft pink flowers, adding depth and interest to its overall form.
• Sunlight Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade, thriving best with morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
• Soil Requirements: Enjoys well-drained, fertile soil that is moist but not waterlogged, ideal for supporting its lush blooms and healthy growth.

Uses and Benefits: Paeonia 'Catharina Fontijn' is perfect for mass plantings in borders and flower beds, where its soothing colors and large blooms create a visually calming effect. It is also highly prized for cut flower arrangements due to its large, showy flowers and long vase life. Additionally, the peony's ability to attract pollinators like bees enhances the biodiversity of the garden, contributing to the ecological health of the area.

Companion Plants: To complement its blush-pink flowers, pair 'Catharina Fontijn' with:

• Lavender: The cool purple hues of Lavender contrast beautifully with the warm pink of the peony, offering a classic color palette that is visually appealing.
• Silver foliage plants, such as Lamb's Ears (Stachys byzantina): The silvery leaves provide a textured backdrop that highlights the smooth and soft pink petals of the peony.
• Blue Hostas: The rich, blue-green foliage of Hostas can enhance the subtle pink shades of the peony blooms, adding depth and richness to the planting design.

Care Instructions: Plant 'Catharina Fontijn' in a location that receives ample sunlight, though some afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter climates. Ensure the planting site has excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist. Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and protect the roots from temperature extremes. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Deadheading spent blooms can help maintain its tidy appearance and promote further blooming.

History: Named after a figure of elegance and refinement, Paeonia 'Catharina Fontijn' was developed to embody the timeless beauty and classic characteristics of peonies, with a modern twist in its subtle coloring and robust growth. It quickly became a favorite among gardeners and florists alike for its dependable blooming and captivating floral displays.

Final Thoughts: Paeonia 'Catharina Fontijn' is more than just a plant; it's a statement of beauty and elegance in the garden. With its gentle pink hues and lush foliage, this peony cultivar brings a touch of softness and serenity to any setting, making it a must-have for those seeking to create a peaceful and picturesque outdoor retreat. Let 'Catharina Fontijn' transform your garden into a showcase of subtle beauty and classic charm, season after season.