Paeonia 'Hephestos' | Hephestos Tree Peony
DESCRIPTION
Paeonia ‘Hephestos’ is a hybrid tree peony with large, double brick-red blooms that appear in late spring. The lotus-shaped flowers have lightly ruffled, pointed petals and a soft, citrus-like fragrance. Held upright on woody stems, the blooms maintain their shape well and offer a bold presence in both gardens and floral arrangements.
Bred by George Daphnis and introduced in 1977, ‘Hephestos’ is a Lutea hybrid valued for its strong stems, reliable bloom, and rich color. It has received the American Peony Society Gold Medal and performs well in mixed borders, adding depth and seasonal interest.
DESCRIPTION
Paeonia ‘Hephestos’ is a hybrid tree peony with large, double brick-red blooms that appear in late spring. The lotus-shaped flowers have lightly ruffled, pointed petals and a soft, citrus-like fragrance. Held upright on woody stems, the blooms maintain their shape well and offer a bold presence in both gardens and floral arrangements.
Bred by George Daphnis and introduced in 1977, ‘Hephestos’ is a Lutea hybrid valued for its strong stems, reliable bloom, and rich color. It has received the American Peony Society Gold Medal and performs well in mixed borders, adding depth and seasonal interest.
DESCRIPTION
Paeonia ‘Hephestos’ is a hybrid tree peony with large, double brick-red blooms that appear in late spring. The lotus-shaped flowers have lightly ruffled, pointed petals and a soft, citrus-like fragrance. Held upright on woody stems, the blooms maintain their shape well and offer a bold presence in both gardens and floral arrangements.
Bred by George Daphnis and introduced in 1977, ‘Hephestos’ is a Lutea hybrid valued for its strong stems, reliable bloom, and rich color. It has received the American Peony Society Gold Medal and performs well in mixed borders, adding depth and seasonal interest.
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Height: 24–36 inches tall
Width: 24–36 inches wide (forms an upright shrub)
Foliage color: Glossy deep green leaves
Flower color: Deep brick‑red to dark crimson double blooms
Bloom time: May to early June
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Moderate
Maintenance: Low—remove spent blooms; prune in late season; strong, sturdy stems usually need no staking
Growing zone: USDA zones 4–9
Wildlife attractors: Fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; deer- and rabbit-resistantThis plant can be seen at Adelman Peony Gardens.