Peony 'Paladin'

Paeonia 'Paladin' is a 1950 herbaceous hybrid with upright stems and cerise-to-carmine red, semi-double flowers. The [Saunders Peonies profile](https://www.saunderspeonies.com/?page_id=1454) records 3–4 petal rows, a 34-inch average height, medium-green foliage and parentage from lactiflora 1875 × “lobata of Perry.” ## Garden use The profile describes an abundance of later-season flowers and recommends the plant for its foliage and form. Its open, upright habit suits a perennial border and gives the red blooms room to show above the divided leaves. The exact flower form and color make it useful where a clear red accent is wanted. ## Growing conditions Plant in a sunny or lightly shaded position with fertile, well-drained soil. Herbaceous peonies are long-lived and dislike disturbance; the [RHS peony guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/peony/herbaceous) gives general advice on siting them and allowing room around established clumps. ## Maintenance Remove faded flowers and cut foliage back in autumn after it dies down. Stake stems if heavy blooms need support.