Colonel Owen Cousins Peony

Colonel Owen Cousins is an extraordinary peony known for its enormous, beautifully formed blooms and unusual, sophisticated coloring. Huge double, bomb-style flowers open in creamy ivory-white with a delicate wash of blush, salmon, and warm peach near the center. As the flowers unfurl, the subtle coloring shifts and softens, giving each bloom incredible depth and an almost luminous quality.

The flowers can reach an impressive 8–10 inches across, making Colonel Owen Cousins a true statement peony in both the garden and the vase. Its large buds, luxurious petal count, and soft, romantic coloring have made this variety especially prized by peony collectors and cut-flower growers.

Bloom Time: Early peony season
Height: Approximately 28–32 inches
Flower Type: Double / Bomb Form
Flower Color: Creamy white with blush, peach & salmon tones
Fragrance: Fragrant
Light: Full sun to light afternoon shade
Hardiness: Zones 3–8
Use: Garden, landscape & exceptional cut flower

Planting & Growing Instructions

Plant peony roots in the fall or early spring in a location receiving at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Choose fertile, well-drained soil and avoid locations where water tends to collect.

Dig a wide hole and position the root with the eyes (small pink or reddish growth buds) facing upward. Cover so the eyes sit only 1–2 inches below the soil surface. Do not plant peonies too deeply, as this can prevent or significantly reduce flowering.

Space plants approximately 3 feet apart to allow room for mature growth and good air circulation. Water thoroughly after planting and keep newly planted roots consistently moist, but never waterlogged, while they establish.

Peonies often take a little patience their first year. Newly planted roots may produce limited growth or few flowers during their first season, but plants become larger and more floriferous as they mature.

After flowering, leave the foliage intact throughout the summer so the plant can store energy for the following year's blooms. Cut foliage back to ground level once it has died back in the fall.

Peonies are exceptionally long-lived perennials. Choose their location carefully and, once established, they can reward you with spectacular flowers for decades.