Peony 'Elsa Sass'

Elsa Sass is a late-flowering lactiflora peony with large, globular, double white flowers and a light fragrance. The [American Peony Society registry](https://americanpeonysociety.org/cultivars/peony-registry/elsa-sass/) records H. P. Sass as originator in 1930 and identifies it as seedling 11-27; the [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/77697/paeonia-lactiflora-elsa-sass/details) notes pink on the outer petals and flowering in early summer. ### Placement Plant in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered border. Choose fertile soil that stays moist but drains well. The RHS describes a clump-forming perennial with divided, glossy dark green leaves and a height of about 80 cm; give it room to develop rather than crowding it among shrubs. Its strong stems support the large flowers, which can also be cut for indoor display. ### Flowering The mostly white blooms provide a later peony display, extending interest toward early summer. The American Peony Society records the cultivar’s Gold Medal award in 1943. Peonies are long-lived, so select a permanent site and avoid unnecessary disturbance. ## Maintenance Remove faded flowers after bloom. Cut the foliage to ground level in fall after it dies back, and keep the planting area clear of spent leaves. Water during dry spells while plants are establishing; avoid persistently wet soil.