Paeonia lactiflora 'Many Happy Returns' | Many Happy Returns Peony
DESCRIPTION
Paeonia lactiflora ‘Many Happy Returns’ has lush, double blossoms in a warm, rich red that retains its intensity even under bright sun. The flowers emerge in late spring and range from anemone to bomb form, filled with a dense center and edged guard petals. The large blooms typically last around a week, offering excellent longevity in both garden beds and vase arrangements, with a subtle fragrance enhancing their presence.
Introduced in 1986 by Hollingsworth and first blooming in 1979, ‘Many Happy Returns’ has earned the American Peony Society’s Gold Medal in 2007 along with the Award of Landscape Merit in 2009, recognizing its floriferous nature and reliable performance. Its sturdy stalks and richly hued blossoms make it a favorite for cut flower use, performing well in refrigerated storage and lasting for weeks out of the garden.
DESCRIPTION
Paeonia lactiflora ‘Many Happy Returns’ has lush, double blossoms in a warm, rich red that retains its intensity even under bright sun. The flowers emerge in late spring and range from anemone to bomb form, filled with a dense center and edged guard petals. The large blooms typically last around a week, offering excellent longevity in both garden beds and vase arrangements, with a subtle fragrance enhancing their presence.
Introduced in 1986 by Hollingsworth and first blooming in 1979, ‘Many Happy Returns’ has earned the American Peony Society’s Gold Medal in 2007 along with the Award of Landscape Merit in 2009, recognizing its floriferous nature and reliable performance. Its sturdy stalks and richly hued blossoms make it a favorite for cut flower use, performing well in refrigerated storage and lasting for weeks out of the garden.
DESCRIPTION
Paeonia lactiflora ‘Many Happy Returns’ has lush, double blossoms in a warm, rich red that retains its intensity even under bright sun. The flowers emerge in late spring and range from anemone to bomb form, filled with a dense center and edged guard petals. The large blooms typically last around a week, offering excellent longevity in both garden beds and vase arrangements, with a subtle fragrance enhancing their presence.
Introduced in 1986 by Hollingsworth and first blooming in 1979, ‘Many Happy Returns’ has earned the American Peony Society’s Gold Medal in 2007 along with the Award of Landscape Merit in 2009, recognizing its floriferous nature and reliable performance. Its sturdy stalks and richly hued blossoms make it a favorite for cut flower use, performing well in refrigerated storage and lasting for weeks out of the garden.
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Height: 24–36 inches
Width: 24–36 inches
Foliage color: Glossy medium to dark green
Flower color: Bright red, double blooms with rich, warm tones
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light requirements: Full sun to light shade
Water requirements: Moderate
Maintenance: Low—cut back foliage after frost; remove spent blooms; strong, upright stems
Growing zone: USDA zones 3–8
Wildlife attractors: Attracts butterflies and other pollinators; good deer and rabbit resistance; excellent for cut‑flower useThis plant can be seen at Peonies at Glencoe Farms.
