
Peonies are native to Asia, Europe and Western North America. They have been cultivated in China for over 2000 years and were revered in Chinese culture.
The common garden peony (Paeonia lactiflora) is indigenous to central and eastern China. It was brought to Europe in the 7th century by monks and grown initially for medicinal purposes. Over time it became popular as an ornamental garden plant.
Peonies were likely introduced to South Africa by European settlers in the 17th-18th centuries. The cooler climate of the areas of South Africa allowed peonies to thrive.
The first documented cultivation of peonies in South Africa was in the early 1800s in the gardens of Huguenot settlers and Dutch colonists in the Western Cape.
In the late 19th century, peonies became more widespread in South Africa and generally sold as bare root rhizomes or potted plants by specialized gardeners.
Main export markets are the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Europe, USA and Asia. The flowers are air-freighted to reach distant markets.
South African peonies have gained international recognition for their high-quality blooms in vibrant colors. They fetch premium prices since they flower out of the Northern hemisphere season.
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