The herbaceous species Tenuifolia, commonly known as the fernleaf peonies, have vibrant red single flowers, slender fern-like leaves, short statures, and earliest bloom times. Tenuifolia is native to southeast Europe, and thrives in rock gardens, where drainage is high. Tenuifolia cross with Lactiflora produce fun hybrids. The leaves are less dissected than the Tenuifolia species, but remain deeply cut and add interest. Stems are strong and flowers are bright on these hybrids. Cultivars to look for include Early Scout and Merry Mayshine.

Note this is our best guess for the timing of the bloom. Warm weather will speed it up, cool with extend it, rain and wind can change it overnight, and a sunny day can make everything pop. Some days will have thousands of flowers in bloom and others will not.