Peony 'Primevere'

‘Primevere’ is an anemone-form, midseason lactiflora peony with creamy white guard petals and a rounded center of narrow yellow petals. The fragrant flowers are abundant, while the tall stems are lax and may need support. ## Flowers and history The American Peony Society registry records Lemoine as originator and 1907 as the introduction year. It describes canary-yellow center petals that lighten as they age, moderate fragrance, dark green coarse foliage, and weak stems. The registry also records that Primevere is distinct from the similar cultivar Laura Dessert, so the two selections should not be confused. [American Peony Society registry](https://americanpeonysociety.org/cultivars/peony-registry/primevere/) ## Garden setting Plant in a bright perennial border where the flowers can be enjoyed at midseason. Peonies generally prefer full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Illinois Extension recommends setting roots no deeper than two inches and avoiding excess fertilizer. [Illinois Extension peony guide](https://extension.illinois.edu/flowers/peony/) ## Maintenance Provide discreet support before flowering to help the lax stems carry their blooms. Water during dry periods as the plant establishes, remove spent flowers if desired, and cut back herbaceous stems after the foliage dies in autumn.