Peonies: The Drama, The Beauty & The Price Tag
Are Peonies Worth The Price? Let’s Talk.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a bouquet overflowing with fluffy, ruffled peonies, you’re not alone. These luxurious blooms are total show-stoppers. Elegant, romantic, and let’s be real, a little bit bougie. But with beauty like that comes a price tag that can make even make a florist blink twice. So what’s the deal? Why are peonies so expensive?
Let’s break it down.
Season Is Everything
Peonies have a very short growing season. In the U.S. they are typically available from late April through early June (with a little wiggle room depending on the weather and where they’re grown). Outside that window, they have to be imported, often from places like Chile or Holland. Which already drives the cost up but in this ever changing economy, the prices may continue to rise even further. Hello, tariffs!
Price Per Stem
In peak season, you might pay anywhere from $5 to $10 per stem wholesale, but for retail pricing, expect to see $10 to $20 per stem, depending on the variety, quality, and where they’re sourced. Out of season and/or imported peonies can climb significantly, upwards of $15 to $25 or more per stem at retail, especially for the highly coveted varieties like Sarah Bernhardt or Coral Charm.
Peonies come in bunches of 5 stems, so when you break it down that’s $50 to $100 for 5 stems. Out of season, prices can cost anywhere from $75 to $125 or more.
Why The Hype?
Peonies are slow growers. It can take 3-5 years for a plant to mature enough to produce lush, full blooms, which makes them a labor of love for growers. Add to that their delicate petals, limited supply, and sky-high demand (especially in wedding season), it makes sense why they’re not budget friendly blooms.
Are They Worth It?
That’s up to you! If you want a luxe look and it’s in the budget, a few peonies go a long way. If they are important to you, use them where it matters the most. Think bridal bouquet, sweetheart table, or key ceremony moments.
Peony Substitutes That Still Feel Luxe
Garden Roses
Big, ruffly, and romantic. Some varieties (like Juliet, Wabara, or White O’Hara) open up just like peonies and smell amazing.
Ranunculus
Layered and delicate, these come in tons of colors and work beautifully in bouquets.
Chrysanthemums
Also known as mums. The larger varieties such as Cremons and Football Mums, offer a similar round, voluminous shape as peonies, and they come in a range of colors to suit any wedding palette.
Lisianthus
While nowhere near the same size or style. Lisianthus is still soft and airy with fluttery petals. A great option for a lighter, more ethereal look.
Hydrangeas
While not the same texture (or size) hydrangeas can offer a similar volume and softness. Their large blooms can provide that lush, full feel, especially when grouped together.
Have questions about building a floral budget or how to get that peony look without breaking the bank? I’ve got you. Let’s chat!