Swenson Gardens
Swenson Gardens is closed for 2021 ordering. We look forward to seeing you again in 2022!
Garden varieties are some of the most popular peonies and can be found in gardens around the world. These versatile plants offer a wide range of bloom times, wonderful landscape appeal and of course, peony cut flowers.
32” tall, 38” wide, single, early
Will the first coral colored bloom please show? We promise to stave off the warmer temperatures so your intense color may last longer!
30” tall, 40” wide, single, early
Flag-red, feisty, and fragrant. This early single holds its head up proudly. Stunning in numbers in the garden, and dramatic as a cut flower.
40” tall, 48” wide, double, mid
Mrs. Freeborn describes this pale coral shade as “shrimp pink.” The very large blooms require some support and deliver gorgeous impact from afar.
36” tall, 48” wide, single, early
His Heavenly attributes await us in early spring. Angelic white color adorns the top of his throne supported by pillars of gigantic ‘macrophylla’ foliage.
34” tall, 38” wide, single, very early
A very early spring bloomer that is an elegant presence in the garden and fragrant sophistication indoors. Shade from afternoon sun to prolong blooms.
34” tall, 42” wide, single, mid to late
Born in Oregon in mid-1950s, along with its brother, Rivida, Minnesota-grown Ava is unapologetically, vividly, vibrantly, pink. Gorgeous and graceful.
26” tall, 34” wide, double, early to mid
May the new queen of the garden take her place! She surely exhibits royalty in color, uprightness and yes, fragrance. Oh, she also likes to come inside adorning us with her presence.
32" tall, 40" wide, double, early
Pretty in pink! My sweet smell and gradient shades of pink make me one of the top cut flowers. I offer a wonderful plant habitat, too.
34” tall, 40” wide, double, late
I will not faint during the growing season! Though others may fall, watch me stand up straight while holding a 6-8” saucer above my head.
36” tall, 48” wide, double, mid to late
The Blanche of Spain in Shakespeare’s King John is described as a pawn born into a royal family. Give me some support and I will surely perform a spectacular alliance during bloom time.
32” tall, 38” wide, double, mid
Cream, please! Let me serve you a huge bowl, provided my support staff is also holding me up. You’ll need at least an 8 or 9 inch bowl, if not, a vase will do!
30” tall, 40” wide, bomb double, mid
Bride’s know that white attire provides a spectacular entrance into her wedding ceremony. I too carry those characteristics into your garden.
28” tall, 38” wide, bomb double, mid
You can have your cake and eat it too, as long as you don’t eat the icing. My delicious smell is tempting, and I am enjoyable in a vase as well.
32” tall, 40” wide, double, mid
Unbeknownst to the bride, I am actually the star of the bridal shower. See and smell me to understand how I can really crash the party!
30” tall, 38” wide, single, very early
Though you may be able to control my brightness on your electronic device, in the garden I am what I am. A dazzling display of perhaps, the brightest red peony bloom!
28” tall, 38” wide, semi-double, early to mid
Deep, rich garnet anchors landscape design and partners beautifully with yellow tulips. Velvety impact and sturdy stems add drama to cut arrangements, too.
38” tall, 42” wide, single, mid
Need a taller dark red? Burma works best when viewed during the day instead of after midnight! At 38” tall, she looks best at the back of your accent bed.
26” tall, 38” wide, single, mid to late
Airy, dancing blooms are far from delicate and flutter atop very sturdy stems. Spectacular color and movement when planted in clusters.
24” tall, 32” wide, single, mid to late
I am a crowing achievement of my originator’s goal to develop petite plants with small blooms. My mere 4” bloom size presents a stunning accent in smaller gardens.
44” tall, 58” wide, double, late
Painted like peppermint, this sweet treat is much-beloved for the playful personality and delightful color combination it brings to late season beds.
30” tall, 38” wide, double, mid
The delicious scent of cloves spices the garden walk when edged with this uncommon and very special bloom. A fabulous cut flower with attractive foliage year-round.
40” tall, 48” wide, double, late
Gardeners have a love affair with my pure white blooms. Some growing seasons I do not even need a supporting cast. I’m available to perform my part in the show.
34” tall, 40” wide, Japanese, mid
You don’t have to be from Wisconsin to enjoy cheese, at least in flower form. This Japanese bloom with an all-cheddar center is a charmer.
28” tall, 36” wide, Japanese, mid
Looking for a different cheese-themed bloom? Come out to the country and see this one from a distance. Great foliage comes with this package.
32” tall, 40” wide, single, early
My cheerful cherry red blooms will definitely charm you in the early bloom season. Make sure to plant me in a dry location so I can bask in the sun from dawn till dusk
36” tall, 48” wide, double, late
Looking for a late, double, fragrant cut flower? I am here to sweep you off your feet and ready for my extended stay in your vase.
28” tall, 32” wide, Japanese, mid
The darkest russet garden peony deserves all the attention a front-and-center spot in your border provides. Touched with gold and extraordinarily dramatic.
32” tall, 40” wide, single, early
Christmas comes early in the bloom season. Huge petals set above a sturdy plant seems like a fluffy bow set atop a Christmas tree.
30” tall, 42” wide, bomb double, mid
This much-sought-after bomb is the very definition of opulent color and elegant form, with extravagant, richly toned petals and excellent posture from strong stems.
34” high, 40” wide, single, early to mid
Saunders collector alert! Apostle Paul greeted his young friend Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:21. He delighted in his fellowship with ‘Claudia’. May she bring that same delight in your garden!
30” tall, 36” wide, semi-double, mid
Saunders collector alert! Very rare and one of our top three favorites of our beloved Dr. A.P. Saunders. Huge semi-double blooms that often reach 8” in diameter.
36” tall, 42” wide, semi-double, early-mid
Other corals may fade quickly to ivory and light yellow, but I am special because my genuine coral color lasts longer. I am also a real charmer in a vase.
36” tall, 40” wide, single, early
Standing out in the garden is a good thing. My coral outer guard petals frame a glowing, golden center. For a stunning show, plant a lot of me.
32” tall, 42” wide, semi-double, early
A popular favorite every year for its tri-colored and tri-phase blooms. Intense coral guard petals touched with rose slowly fade to pale ivory. Delightful.
36” tall, 42” wide, semi-double, early
My ivory tinged coral petals give me a special look. Some years I’m nearly the most popular coral. Oh, by the way, you get one of me per straight stem.
32” tall, 40” wide, single to semi-double, early
Exclusivity can be a good thing! I have been available in limited numbers for many years. Some consider me to be one of the first coral pinks from Saunder’s lobata hybrids.
24” tall, 32” wide, semi-double, early
Let me pucker up in the front of your border with my lipsticky pink blooms. My color wears off quickly if planted in full sun, so afternoon shade is preferred.
32” tall, 42” wide, Japanese, mid
A constantly evolving palette of watercolor pinks, delicate corals, and rose accents, this fascinating showstopper changes daily, almost right before your eyes.
32” tall, 40” wide, Japanese, mid to late
Some Japanese blooms open slowly, but I prefer to open quickly. I also prefer some shade in the afternoon to retain my vibrant color.
36” tall, 44” wide, double, late
Pink can be beautiful in the garden and in a vase. Sweetly scented and a fabulous cut flower.
36” tall, 48” wide, double, mid
Every year the Swensons get asked about a violet, pinkish bloom with white in the middle that Grandma once grew. I’m here!
24” tall, 32” wide, bomb double, mid
The intensity and drama of Red Charm on a petite frame, with compact, dense foliage. Delivers an impact in a small space. Lovely cut flower.
36” tall, 40” wide, single, early
This exotic-looking show-off with evenly spaced petals is a stunner. Originally registered by Alfred Mantegna and then purchased from Don Smetana in Washington.
36” tall, 42” wide, double, mid
As a cut flower, this silver-touched coral double is outstanding, long-lasting, and fragrant. Popular for its looks and its foliage.
20” tall, 28” wide, single, early
A petite delight of compact, rounded foliage and brilliant, sassy blooms. Perfection in rock gardens, borders, and wherever space is small but big impact is desired.
30” tall, 38” wide, double, early
Bring on the vases! My delicate, sweet fragrance will fill your home with just a few blooms. I am beautiful in the garden as well, but my stems do need support.
40” tall, 52” wide, single, very early
My composition may be improvisatory in form, but look past my fleshy pink blooms and notice my maroon infused stems and leaves. Unique foliage masterpiece!
32” tall, 44” wide, double, mid
Ready for something different? Some gardeners call me a novelty however I like to call my blooms unusual in a good way. Watch me each day as my layers unfold.
34” tall, 42” wide, double, mid
Some growing years I do need support, as my blooms can be quite large. For those of you who do not like fragrant cut flowers, I’m all yours!
30” tall, 40” wide, single, early
Shade this peachy pink bloom from afternoon sun, and its ballet tutu color will linger longer. Extraordinary, long-legged centers inside well-sculpted guard petals.
34” tall, 40” wide, double, mid
Not bragging too much, but some growing years I offer 9” ivory white blooms. Grab your largest vase to show off lots of me inside your home.
32” tall, 40” wide, Japanese, mid to late
Nothing shy about this saucy bloom! A rounded center of pink-and-cream petals nestle inside full-skirted guard blooms of definite rose. Ooh la la!
34” tall, 38” wide, double, mid to late
Usher in the spring with lime green stems that change into yellow green foliage as it matures. Very slow grower and requires full sun. Be patient and protective!
34” tall, 40” wide, double, mid
My exotic coloration, fluffy blooms, pleasing fragrance, and extended vase life will charm all your senses. Take me, I’m yours!
28” tall, 34” wide, single, early
Lest you never forget me even when my blooms departest thee, may my unusual petals and curious color fill your dreams with wonder!
36” tall, 44” wide, double, mid-late
Because I am one of the newer dark red peonies, the photographer could not keep his eyes off of me. Bring on the paparazzi!
28” tall, 36” wide, Japanese, mid
Do you like me more at first or late in my bloom? Yes, I transform from violet pink to a soft blend of violet, rose, and finally ivory.
36” tall, 46” wide, double, mid
Though I was originally known as the ‘First Lady of the American Theater’, now I can grace your garden…with a stellar performance. I do, however, need a supporting cast.
40” tall, 50” wide, double, early to mid
Gardeners continually admire my looks and fragrance in the gardens. I kept telling them to bring me inside and to shows. Now they get it!
30” tall, 38” wide, double, mid-late
Yes, the dark red peony you can see from our road during Peony Field Days is FINALLY available! The highlight reel of this red is…it doesn’t fade!
24” tall, 30” wide, single, very early
Being one of the original sub-species peonies has its advantages! I offer a very early bloom time, purplish blossoms, aqua foliage, and I’m a good mom and a great dad! You should see my kids!
28” tall, 38” wide, double, mid
These big, bountiful blooms are densely petaled and make extraordinary bouquets (and oil paintings!). One of the most popular, bestselling whites, with sturdy stems.
30” tall, 36” wide, double, early to mid
Short stature, big blooms—up to 8 inches across. Dense petals of dark pink open to lighter pink, turning to white. Sturdy stems. Excellent for borders.
36” tall, 48” wide, double, mid
To be honest, I’ve seen it all! Not tornadoes like Dorothy, but I can handle high winds and still look beautiful for show tables.
26” tall, 36” wide, semi-double to double, late
This mysterious variety is from a famous hybridizer’s garden, yet its precise origins are unknown, so its offspring are noted as seedling pollen and/or pod parent.
32” tall, 38” wide, double, mid
An icy lemon-colored double bomb, frothy as a meringue. This is an award-winning peony with prolific blooms, strong stems, and a divine fragrance.
32” tall, 40” wide, semi-double, late
In a dry location and spring, I do very well to show off my blooms and foliage. Otherwise I can be a tad finicky to flourish. Keep that between us girls.
28” tall, 38” wide, single, early to mid
Saunders collector alert! We fell in love with this variety many years ago. Be patient and protective as it takes many years to mature.
36” tall, 44” wide, single, early to mid
Saunders collector alert! Novice gardeners alike can appreciate the charm of this very rare, magnificently crimson herbaceous hybrid that even holds purple tones.
26” tall, 36” wide, single, very early
Last year I was the first peony to bloom. Gardeners LOVE my fern leaf foliage, yet I’m much easier and faster growing than my parents.
38” tall, 48” wide, double, late
Greetings from Mission, British Columbia, Canada. I arrived at Swenson Gardens in 2005 and have spent the last few years growing and reproducing myself for availability this year.
24” tall, 32” wide, Japanese, late
My petite size has its advantages for gardens with limited space. My originator developed numerous rock garden peonies that my grower is releasing over the next few years.
28” tall, 38” wide, semi-double, mid
When Swensons first saw my astounding blossom they wanted to share their joy! I offer a flat bloom and exquisite foliage contained in a petite package.
18” tall, 24” wide, single, very early
It’s tough being one of the shortest peonies in the field. However, when gardeners get close to me, its love at first sight! Small is beautiful! Yes fern leaf foliage too!
30” tall, 36” wide, novelty, mid
An unusual double the color of cream, touched with pink-tipped edges. It loves a dry spot in the garden, and thrives in an arid growing season.
32” tall, 48” wide, single, early
Gift the garden of newlyweds with the palest of pink-white blooms, held aloft on entwined carpels, which inspired its name. Excellent, shrub-like foliage.
30” tall, 36” wide, semi-double, early to mid
A unique, creamy pink coloration in my bloom and in some years a ‘rose’ shaped bloom creates quite a sight to behold.
26” tall, 38” wide, semi-double, mid
Some gal by the name of Martha really likes me as a cut flower. In the garden, though, everybody loves me! You be the judge of that.
24” tall, 32” wide, bomb double, mid
Fragrance free – with all the benefits though of a soft, white cut flower bloom. Smaller than most cut flower peonies require a shorter vase indoors.
30” tall, 36” wide, single, early to mid
Seeing me in bloom will not keep the doctor away versus eating an apple in May. Please provide some afternoon shade so my apple color remains.
30” tall, 40” wide, double, early to mid
My cupped light yellow blooms are amazing to photograph. But seeing them in person is the best way to view them in your garden and in a vase. Exquisite, if I don’t say so myself!
30” tall, 40” wide, Japanese, mid
Aptly named with very dark red guards surrounded by a yellow sun: However, I only bloom during daylight hours. Very nice performer.
30” tall, 40” wide, double, early to mid
I was named after the founder of Ferncliff Gardens in Canada. I came to Swenson Gardens in 2005 and available again. My blooms are huge so support appreciated.
24” tall, 34” wide, single, very early
Originally found in the Caucasus Mountains growing on rocky slopes in oak, hornbeam and beach forests may now find its way into your garden!
26” tall, 36” wide, Japanese, mid
Don’t tell the other varieties, but my grower says that I have the most interesting foliage characteristics of all garden peonies. You should consider me too!
32” tall, 40” wide, double, mid
Among our top five cut flowers that often sells out for many reasons: delightful fragrance, elegant petals, dense form, and pretty foliage. Now available!
34” tall, 42” wide, Japanese, mid to late
Zing! Snap! Sizzle! No electricity needed to flip this switch in the garden. Rosy petals hold their color and the stamens are edged in gold.
38” tall, 48” wide, double, mid to late
I truly am the king of strong-stemmed reds. It takes longer for me to mature, but I am worth the wait. There are only a few of me to go around, so order early!
30” tall, 40” wide, double, mid
Rare, exquisite, and a bit slow to mature, with semi-glossy foliage and blooms that look like wedding cake frosting. Romantic and voluptuous, with limited amounts this year.
36” tall, 46” wide, double, early to mid
Our friend Roger F Anderson had a part in the parentage of this spectacular peony with his original seedling parent. Now let’s enjoy it in our gardens!
24” tall, 30” wide, double, mid
A perfectly diminutive peony: pretty fragrance, raspberry-tipped and ruffled petals with a honey-colored glow, sturdy stems, and border-worthy foliage. An excellent cutting garden plant.
38” tall, 48” wide, bomb double, mid
Like gathered petticoats, these soft pink-and-cream petals are ruffled and romantic. A star in any arrangement with a delicate fragrance and sturdy stems.
24” tall, 38” wide, bomb double, mid to late
Don’t get me wrong about flirting as it is okay to do that in garden situations! You will see me later in the bloom time, which is a good thing for extending color (and flirting) in your garden.
34” tall, 40” wide, semi-double, early
May I bring some Hawaiian coral color into your garden? Though my color is not under water, my coral color flourishes.
42” tall, 46” wide, huge single, mid
A truly stunning presence in the garden! Enormous, deep scarlet red blooms held aloft on tall stems command attention (and a little support).
32” tall, 40” wide, Japanese, mid
I’m really not on fire but from a distance, a clump planting of me almost looks like a prairie fire. Be quick to photograph me as my colors change almost daily.
28” tall, 38” wide, double, early to mid
White on white guard petals and double bomb center ball that are pure enough for a pristine bridal bouquet. Striking against its dark green foliage.
32” tall, 40” wide, semi-double, early
Vibrant, raspberry-colored blooms hold their intensity regardless of the weather. Bright yellow gold centers are cupped by semi-double petals. Sturdy stems and wonderful cut flower.
36” tall, 48” wide, bomb double, mid to late
Who needs ice cream when my blooms offer a scrumptious and delightful treat in the garden! P.S. I even smell nicer than ice cream.
34” tall, 40” wide, bomb double, early
Last year’s second-most popular red peony. Intense wine-colored petals in dense formation are lush and memorable. Attractive, hedge-like foliage. This year’s number one?
32” tall, 44” wide, double, mid
A very rare ‘Lins’ origination that you can truly fall in love with this year. It does need some support and its light fragrance will stay with you forever.
32” tall, 38” wide, double, early
My original stock came from Canada. Here in the US, I am actually called ‘Rose Heart’. The heart of the matter though is I’m a lovely double pink too!
28” tall, 38” wide, single, early
Upright, strong, and reputable truly defines my class of very early peonies. Veins of rose flow through my aristocratic petals.
36” tall, 50” wide, single, early
Creamy peach-colored blooms on sturdy stems arrive in early spring, and stately foliage sets off other border plants for the rest of the season.
36” tall, 42” wide, double, early to mid
Richly layered color in a whopper of a gorgeous bloom, packed with petals. Support the giant blooms, and enjoy the light green foliage.
28” tall, 36” wide, single to semi-double, early
Gardeners’ dreams are made of my salmon colored blooms. Hybridizers also dream, but once they see my offspring, they have a hard time sleeping from their excitement!
36” tall, 48” wide, double, late
Meet the number one cut flower in all the world. Its large, fragrant double blooms of pastel pink have been beloved for more than 100 years.
26” tall, 36” wide, single, very early
The Bible verses of Isaiah 6:2, 3, 6 and 7 refer to angelic beings ministering to the King. Perhaps Saunders meant the same for me in your garden.
38” tall, 48” wide, single, very early
I am definitely not small in stature! My apple-blossom-pink blooms stand tall and strong very early in the season. My presence is a stunning way to usher in Spring.
15” tall, 24” wide, single, early
Speaking of height, I’m almost considered a dwarf or rock garden peony. Keep any additional watering away from me as I like drier locations.
30” tall, 38” wide, double, mid
This Roger Anderson hybrid is new, rare, and our most-requested herbaceous hybrid. Double red blooms can be 8 inches wide. Stems are exceptionally sturdy
24” tall, 44” wide, single, early
This early bloomer is heavily ruffled and pretty as a party dress, with large blooms of 8-10 inches wide, visible from a distance. Strong stems.
30” tall, 38” wide, double, early
No apologies here…my blooms are HUGE! Double my support to keep me upright. Yes, my blooms can be that large. Smell me, and I am yours forever!
30” tall, 38” wide, single, very early
Ushering in the very early bloom season is an attribute given to me by my originator. Not sure if he was calling me sweet because of my early arrival or because my blooms are SWEET!
38” tall, 48” wide, Japanese, mid
I love to stand up and stand out in a crowd, especially if there are numbers of me planted in a group. Visitors at Peony Field Days swoon over me!
34” tall, 44” wide, double, mid to late
Nearly transparent pink petals are textured with tiny flecks of rose, adding depth and dimension to this beloved fragrant cut flower. Strong stems.
38” tall, 54” wide, double, mid
Wow! Unabashed, non-fading, vividly deep red petals that run to downright eggplant-colored intensity and contrasts with an electric yellow center. A favorite of cut flower buyers.
28” tall, 38” wide, bomb double, mid
Looking good outside has its advantages as the processional leads inside. Stately yet soft spoken once the ‘vase’ is allowed to host the ceremony.
32” tall, 42” wide, bomb double, early-mid
My blooms are HUGE! Maximum support is needed to keep me upright. Oh, and my bloom color is very unique and inviting.
54” tall, 48” wide, single, early
A very tall Saunders variety with small, distinctive blooms of delicately ruffled single petals. Plant against a wall or fence for maximum impact.
30” tall, 38” wide, double, mid
Our absolute favorite ivory white peony in a vase. Not a touch of yellow or a blush of pink, just glorious white and a lovely fragrance.
38” tall, 46” wide, bomb double, mid to late
Get some support! It’s a big one! Not only is it tall but its blooms can be almost 8 inches wide. Take a picture and release it back in the water…in a vase!
40” tall, 58” wide, single, early
This massive peony on tall stems produces early spring blooms of white that contrast beautifully with dark green foliage. A top pick for landscape appeal.
24” tall, 34” wide, single, early to mid
Awake, oh my soul, awake. As the sun reaches high above the horizon, our gardens are awakening to a noticeable difference. A Roger Anderson’s exclusive yellow seedling.
28” tall, 40” wide, single, early to mid
Blonde is certainly a beautiful color especially when you are a new Roger Anderson exclusive yellow seedling!
20” tall, 30” wide, semi-double, mid
Will the circle be unbroken? Knowing there’s a better home awaiting in the sky, for now though, lets gather round Roger Anderson’s exclusive yellow peony and sing!
24” tall, 32” wide, single, mid
Not as smooth as other single white peonies, however, my fragrance and crinkled petals attracts many gardeners and honey bees. too Hint, hint…
20” tall, 32” wide, single to semi-double, mid
My cup runneth over with beauty, strength and fragrance. Not to be arrogant but I am certainly blessed to be one of Roger Anderson’s exclusive yellow seedlings.
30” tall, 42” wide, double, early
Have you ever seen and smelled an ‘early blooming’ full double white? What an accomplishment at Swenson Gardens to release this new seedling to a few gardeners.
22” tall, 32” wide, single, mid
Though Roger Anderson is not quite as young as he used to be, his exclusive yellow seedling certainly has that youthful, attractive and happy glow up close and from a distance.
26” tall, 36” wide, single, mid
Yes, I am an exclusive Roger Anderson yellow seedling; however, the lower portions of my petals have a greenish hue with a light yellow…’halo’. Very unique and luminescent!
26” tall, 38” wide, single, early to mid
Light is consistently that, light. No darkness here especially when the sun is shining brightly. A Roger Anderson’s exclusive yellow seedling.
30” tall, 40” wide, single, early to mid
Linen is known for its strength, coolness and luster. All those attributes ascribe this new Swenson Gardens exclusive seedling. Very noticeable during early to mid bloom.
22” tall, 30” wide, single, early to mid
Do honey bees love me? Seems like every time they visit me their pollen press is full. Human photographers also love me for the unique colorations of my blooms.
26” tall, 38” wide, single, early to mid
Back in 1856 an English chemist William Perkin accidentally discovered this color. Little did anyone know that my mauve colored blooms could be seen by a few gardeners in 2021.
30” tall, 44” wide, single, early
Roger Anderson’s new yellow seedling officially calls this meeting to order. Sorry no seating available so you will have to stand. I know there are many of you here so let’ get started.
34” tall, 46” wide, single, early
You may know my mom, Little Dorrit, but I grew up much taller than her. Even my bloom is almost 7 inches wide. Mom is certainly proud of me as I also have a very pleasing fragrance.
24” tall, 32” wide, single, mid
Hopefully you have optical stabilization on your camera as I think I see you shaking looking at me through your viewfinder. I know, I know, you have never seen a peony bloom like me.
30” tall, 42” wide, semi-double, early to mid
Wrinkles, creases, pressed and folded describe my delicate appearance. Please do not crumple or squeeze me too hard even though my fragrance lures you in!
40” tall, 44” wide, semi-double to double, early to mid
Swenson’s have kept me hidden from you far too long! Finally, they have shown me to the world. Yes, I’m that lovely so negotiate your purchase quickly before they hide me again.
30” tall, 42” wide, semi-double to double, early to mid
Looking for a sublime ‘white’ peony? My qualities are sophisticated, extremely good, beautiful and enjoyable. Seriously I’m that noble and majestic!