Paeonia 'Alexander Fleming'

Paeonia 'Alexander Fleming': Heirloom Elegance in Blush

Opulent and romantic, Paeonia 'Alexander Fleming' offers a nostalgic charm with its full, rose-pink double blooms that unfurl like layers of silk. Borne on strong stems, these richly fragrant flowers evoke old-world gardens while providing enduring beauty in modern borders. Blooming in early summer, each flower glows with subtle blush tones and emits a sweet perfume that lingers on warm June breezes.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 75 cm
• Spread: 45 cm
• Flower Colour: Deep rose-pink, fading to soft blush tones
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer
• Foliage: Glossy, dark green foliage that remains attractive through the season
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to light shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter

Uses and Benefits: Paeonia 'Alexander Fleming' is a timeless choice for perennial borders, cutting gardens, and cottage-inspired plantings. Its large, luxurious blooms make it an excellent cut flower, while its sturdy stems and compact shape lend structure to mixed beds. A reliable perennial with deer resistance and pollinator appeal, it adds a touch of vintage glamour to both formal and naturalistic designs.

Companion Plants: Surround Paeonia 'Alexander Fleming' with Geranium 'Rozanne', whose trailing violet-blue flowers echo the peony’s rich hues and bloom well into fall. Add contrast and longevity with Salvia 'Caradonna', its dark stems and purple spires providing vertical interest and attracting pollinators. Anchor the planting with the airy form and cool tone of Deschampsia cespitosa, a graceful ornamental grass that harmonizes with the peony’s texture and shares its preference for moist, well-drained soils.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun to partial shade with rich, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first growing season. Avoid planting too deeply—eyes should be just below the surface. Support may be needed when in bloom. Remove spent flowers to promote foliage health and cut back stems after frost. Divide only if needed, as peonies prefer to remain undisturbed.

History: Paeonia 'Alexander Fleming' is a cherished heirloom hybrid, introduced in the mid-20th century and named in honour of the famed scientist who discovered penicillin. Its rich colour, robust fragrance, and lasting popularity make it a standout among double-flowered peonies, often passed down in gardens as a living legacy.

Final Thoughts: With blooms as plush as antique velvet and a fragrance that evokes a bygone era, Paeonia 'Alexander Fleming' lends both grandeur and tenderness to the garden. Its early summer presence is a celebration of romance, resilience, and the quiet magic of perennial beauty.