Paeonia 'Buckeye Belle' (red)

This herbaceous perennial features a compact, upright habit, thriving in USDA zones 3-8 with a recommended hardiness of -40°F to -30°F. It produces striking, deep red, semi-double flowers with a subtle golden-yellow center, making it a show-stopper in early to mid-summer gardens. Its lush, dark green foliage offers a touch of interest that persists through the growing season, though it does not typically display notable fall color. Preferring well-drained, loamy soil enriched with organic matter, this plant is moderately deer resistant and drought tolerant once established. Its mature height reaches 30 to 36 inches, with a rounded form that complements mixed borders or as a focal point in garden beds. The plant does not produce significant fruit, and its rich blooms are excellent for cutting gardens or pollinator-friendly landscapes.