A beautifully illustrated cultural history of the silky flower.

Peonies are among the most beloved flowers, with petals of the finest silk and often a distinctive perfume. Their large, flamboyantly colored blooms are attractive and photogenic, ideal for celebrations. Beyond the flowers, the colorful shoots add interest to any garden. Peonies appear in the art and literature of China, Korea, Japan, the classical Mediterranean, and medieval Europe. Charles Darwin, as a child, was sent to count the peonies in his family garden, his first exercise in scientific data collection. Superbly illustrated, and covering cultural as well as botanical details, this book is an ideal companion for plant lovers wanting to learn more about this fascinating flower.