Peony

About : Peony

Peony is a plant native to several regions around the world, including Asia, parts of North America and southern Europe. It produces large pretty pink, white or red flowers with layers of petals and is often appreciated for its sweet fragrance.

From Greece to China

The peony traces its roots back to Ancient Greece when it was named after a beautiful nymph called Paeonia, who received so much attention from the gods that a jealous nymph turned her into a flower. It is also a national symbol for China and often used in Chinese art. It is often used as an ornamental plant and and an ingredient in Chinese herbal medicine. Peony roots are thought to help reduce fever and help prevent infection on wounds as well as soothing muscle spasms. The plant was also popular in Western cultures during Edwardian times, appearing in many medieval paintings.

An Enduring Flower

There are hundreds of varieties of peonies but most share similar characteristics and come in the form of a shrub with large sprouting leaves. Peonies have a reputation for being difficult to grow but are immensely popular and very resilient, lasting up to 50 years. The lactiflora cultivar breed of peonies was discovered in Provence during the nineteenth century, followed by the "Duchesse de Nemours" peony plant which was bred in 1856. This scented flower is very popular and is still used in perfumes made in the region today.

Peony (Pivoine Flora) by L'OCCITANE

L'OCCITANE uses peony extract in a range of products including perfumes and body creams to soaps and make-up. Its scent is green and fresh with notes of sandalwood and grapefruit.