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Sarah Bernhardt

Family: Paeoniaceae Perennial flowering plant
Zone 6b Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Sarah Bernhardt to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.

Velvety, cloudlike blooms unfurl in a romantic cascade—Sarah Bernhardt’s petals glow in soft blush to creamy rose, with a luminous, satin sheen that seems to catch the light at every angle.

The flowers are full and richly layered, with a poised, sculptural form that holds its beauty through the season, making a spectacular centerpiece in the garden. Grow Sarah Bernhardt for long-lasting showy presence in borders and cut-flower displays, where its graceful stature and abundant flowering deliver true heirloom charm year after year.

Light: Full SunMaturity: 365 DaysHabit: Clumping

Botanical illustration of Sarah Bernhardt

Planting schedules and alerts are optimized for Columbus (Zone 6b).

Crop Dates

Growing note: Zone 6b has only 174 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 365-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.
MilestoneDate
Last FrostApr 25th
Growing ApproachProtected Environment Only

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity365
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitClumping
Support NeededStake
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)50
Min Night Temp (°F)35
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s a common disease problem for Paeonia lactiflora (Sarah Bernhardt peony), and how do I treat it?
Botrytis blight is a common issue, showing up as gray mold on buds and stems (often after cool, wet weather). Remove and discard affected stems and spent buds, then improve airflow by not crowding plants. If the problem is active early, treat with a labeled fungicide for botrytis/gray mold on peonies and avoid overhead watering.
How often should I water Paeonia lactiflora during active growth, and what soil moisture level should I aim for?
During the main growing season, water deeply about 1–2 times per week so the root zone gets evenly moist but not soggy. Aim for soil that stays lightly moist 5–10 cm down; if the top layer dries out, water again, but don’t keep the crown area wet. Reduce watering after flowering so the plant doesn’t sit in moisture as it prepares for dormancy.
How can I tell when Sarah Bernhardt peony (Paeonia lactiflora) is ready to harvest for cut flowers?
Harvest when buds are well-colored and feel slightly soft, but haven’t fully opened—look for petals that show their color through the bud. Fully open blooms can be cut, but buds that are just about to open last longer in a vase. Cut in the morning, with stems that include at least one open bud for the best display and quickest opening.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Sarah Bernhardt in Zone 6b typically begins around Indoor Lights Only. Wait until soil reaches at least 50°F before transplanting Sarah Bernhardt.

Garden Alerts

Zone 6b has only 174 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 365-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Sarah Bernhardt in Zone 6b typically begins around Indoor Lights Only. Wait until soil reaches at least 50°F before transplanting Sarah Bernhardt.

Garden Alerts

Zone 6b has only 174 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 365-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 50°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Plant peonies where they’ll get at least 6 hours of sun and give them room—once established, they resent frequent moving.