Peony 'Henry Bockstoce'

Henry Bockstoce is an herbaceous hybrid peony with large double dark red flowers, a rose-colored center, and strong stems. The [American Peony Society registry](https://americanpeonysociety.org/cultivars/peony-registry/henry-bockstoce/) records W. S. Bockstoce as originator in 1955 and gives hybrid parentage involving *Paeonia officinalis* and *P. lactiflora*. The [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/219605/paeonia-lactiflora-henry-bockstoce/details) describes late-spring and summer flowers with a spicy scent. ### Placement Site this long-lived perennial in full sun or partial shade. It grows best in fertile soil that remains moist but drains well. Plant it where the substantial flowers are easy to enjoy, with room for a mature clump and good air circulation. The RHS gives broad mature height and spread ranges of 0.5–1 m, so allow room for the plant to develop. ### Seasonal interest The double red flowers bring rich color to a spring and early-summer border. The foliage remains after bloom and provides a green backdrop through the growing season. Peonies resent disturbance, so choose a permanent location rather than planning to move the plant as the garden changes. ## Maintenance Remove faded flowers after bloom. In fall, cut back foliage after it dies and clear away plant debris. Water newly planted peonies during dry weather while they establish; avoid wet, poorly drained ground.