Mr. Ed Peony

Mr. Ed is a named lactiflora peony with double, fragrant flowers and strong stems. The [Paeon.de cultivar entry](https://www.paeon.de/aaa/01663.html) attributes its introduction to Roy Klehm and Charles Klehm and Son Nursery in 1980, and describes it as a mutation of ‘Mons Jules Elie’; its listed bloom timing and flower shades vary among the historical and nursery records. ### Flowers and placement The entry describes large, high-centered, blushing cream flowers, with occasional frosty white blooms dappled in rose; other nursery descriptions also report pink flowers on the same plant. Its strong stems and fragrant blooms suit a sunny or partly shaded perennial border and make it a useful cut flower. Give it fertile soil that stays moist but drains well, following [Iowa State University Extension’s peony guidance](https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/peony-paeonia-sp). ### Seasonal interest Published descriptions differ on whether this selection is extra early, midseason, or later, so local flowering time should be observed rather than inferred from the name. The variable flower color can add subtle contrast in a mixed peony planting. ## Maintenance Remove faded flowers after bloom. Cut foliage to ground level after it dies back in fall, and clear away spent leaves. Water during dry periods while the plant establishes; avoid waterlogged soil. Peonies are long-lived and resent disturbance, so choose a permanent site.