Parts Most Frequently Used: Root, Root Bark, Flower

Flavors/Temps: Acrid, Bitter, Cool

Caution: Considered safe, due to its Blood Moving properties, it is not recommended during pregnancy.

Key Constituents: Phenol, Paeonol, Paeonoside, Paeonolide, Apiopaeonoside, Paeoniflorin, Benzoyl paeoniflorin, Gallic acid, Volatile Oil, Phytosterols, Benzoic acid, Sucrose, Glucose.

History/Folklore:  Peony tree is said to have originated from wild flowers grown in the mountains, where they were first treated as firewood by the ancient Chinese Ancestors. Do not confuse peony tree (Paeonia suffruticosa) with peony flower (Paeonia lactiflora), also called Chinese peony (Bai Shao/white peony and Chi Shao/red peony). Both are the same species, but they have different healing properties.

According to the “Shen Nong Herbal Classic,” peony tree removes abdominal masses, eliminates Blood Stagnation, and supports all five of the Body’s principal internal organs. It also Tonifies Qi and promotes longevity. The plant’s root bark is the most frequently used part of the plant. Taken raw, it Cools Blood.  Dry-fried it Invigorates Blood. Charred it Stops Bleeding. Traditionally, the herb is avoided while taking garlic.

The large, beautiful flowers of the trees, or flowering plants, have always been a symbol of prosperity and are called the “Queen of Flowers” and “The National Beauty with Heavenly Fragrance.” It is a flower (and plant) considered not to have mere vain beauty, but a true sense of character. It will never simply yield to others. It will always take its time, like a queen. It fears no one, especially those in power. Ancient Chinese poets depict it as a tough fighter. Peonies symbolize honor, wealth, aristocracy, love, affection, and feminine beauty.

Peony trees grow slowly and have fragile flowers susceptible to wind, rain, or too hot temperatures. The blooms do not last long, though the plant itself is long-lived. The seeds are collected in June when the plant’s seed pods split. They are air-dried for a few days and then stored in moist soil until they are planted again during the Autumn.

The Latin name “Paeonia,” derives from the name “Paeon.” Paeon was a disciple of Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine.

The Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) named peony tree flower as China’s national flower. (The plum blossom is also cherished in Chinese culture, and is the national flower of Taiwan.) Currently, China has no officially designated national flower. In past Chinese dynasties, the emperor preferred and was the exclusive owner of certain peony tree varieties, further lifting the significance and value of these beautiful flowers.

The fresh petals of the peony tree flower are used to make a thick soup or garnish for special dishes. They are also used to make tea, syrups, jams, and can even be added to cookies, salads, or floated in punches. Peony Tree flowers can blossom to become 9 -12 inches across. The yellow variety, called Yao Huang in Chinese or yellow wheel, is rare and produces very few blooms, but is said to have the grace and nobility of dragons flying. There are many old Chinese tales surrounding peonies. They are a beloved part of Chinese culture and folklore.