Peony 'Catharina Fontijn'

Paeonia lactiflora 'Catharina Fontijn' forms an upright, bushy clump with dissected dark green foliage that is tinged red in spring. Its double, saucer-shaped pale pink flowers are spicily scented and bloom in summer, fading from old pink through blush to off-white. ## In the Garden Allow roughly 0.5–1 m for both mature height and spread. The [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/343433/paeonia-lactiflora-catharina-fontijn/details) describes the cultivar's size, foliage, flower form, fragrance, and summer bloom; the [American Peony Society registry](https://americanpeonysociety.org/cultivars/peony-registry/catharina-fontijn/) records its color changes and cultivar history. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun or partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. The RHS lists chalk, clay, loam, and sand as suitable soil types and recommends a sheltered position. ## Maintenance Water during extended dry spells, particularly while the clump establishes. Keep peonies in a permanent position and remove dead stems in autumn; the RHS also recommends spring mulching and avoiding planting too deeply.