The Grand Old Dame · Saskatchewan-grown
Festiva Maxima peony
The belle of the ball since 1851. Ruffled white petals, crimson secrets, and a rose-like fragrance.
- Colour
- Ruffled white · Crimson flecks
- Bloom window
- Early season
That Peony Farm’s Saskatchewan season runs from mid-June to late July. This variety’s bloom window is relative to our season, not a guaranteed date. Mother Nature has the final say.
Festiva Maxima has been the belle of the ball since 1851, when a French grower introduced her. More than 170 years later she still outshines the newcomers. She’s a big, ruffled white bloom with a few crimson flecks tucked into her centre, as if she sneaked a raspberry tart on her way to the party and hopes no one notices. Her rose-like fragrance fills a room, which is why brides keep asking for her by name.
Peonies have long stood for good fortune and a happy marriage, and Festiva Maxima is the classic wedding peony.
A note for florists
Strong stems, big heads, and a reliable vase life make her a beautiful choice for bridal designs when her bloom window aligns. She blooms early in our season and books up first. Enquire early about your dates.