Peonies are treasured for their lush, layered petals that have an incredibly romantic appeal, often serving as the show-stopping element in bouquets for your home, office, and events. However, their limited blooming season (April to June) leaves many flower enthusiasts with much to be desired and on the hunt for similar gorgeous alternatives. Flowers like dahlias, anemones, ranunculus, carnations, hydrangeas, camellias, garden roses, gardenias, and marigolds all capture the essence of peonies with similar intricate forms and vibrant hues.
These beautiful flowers share the soft textures, ideal silhouettes, and vibrant colors that make peonies so wildly popular and sought out. Whether you're crafting a bouquet or planting a summer garden, these peony look-alikes ensure your floral displays remain abundant and enchanting all year long. For those who pine for the timeless charm of peonies but want more options throughout the year, these alternatives are perfect solutions to scratch your floral itch.
Flowers That Look Like Peonies
1. Dahlias
Dahlias are celebrated for their dramatic, symmetrical blooms that resemble the layered petals of peonies. These flowers symbolize elegance and strength, making them a popular choice for weddings and celebratory moments. Available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, dahlias come in a wide spectrum of colors, including soft pastels, vibrant reds, and even two-toned varieties. Their versatility makes them a favorite for wedding bouquets, garden displays, and floral arrangements. Dahlias thrive in well-drained soil and sunny locations, making them a stunning and practical addition to any garden.
When they bloom: Late summer through early fall
2. Anemones
Anemones, known for their dainty, papery petals and striking central disc, mimic the soft, romantic feel of peonies. These flowers often symbolize protection and anticipation, adding a meaningful layer of meaning to floral designs. Anemones come in a beautiful range of colors, from soft whites and blush pinks to deep purples and vibrant blues. Their understated elegance and unique charm make them a popular choice for minimalist and whimsical bouquets alike. To flourish, anemones prefer cool climates and well-drained soil, making them ideal for spring gardens.
When they bloom: Late winter through spring
3. Ranunculus
Ranunculus are applauded for their tightly packed, velvety petals and rich textures, often mistaken for small peonies. Symbolizing charm and attractiveness, these flowers are a favorite for wedding bouquets and dining room centerpieces. Ranunculus are available in a wide variety of colors, including bright yellows, romantic pinks, deep reds, and elegant whites, which offers plenty of options for every aesthetic. These blooms do best in cooler weather and in well-drained soil, making them a low-maintenance and gorgeous addition to any garden.
When they bloom: Late winter through early summer
4. Carnations
Carnations are a multifaceted flower with ruffled petals that mimic the fullness of peonies. Representing love and distinction, carnations are an affordable yet beautiful option for creating lush arrangements. They come in a ridiculous amount of color options, including soft pastels, bold reds, and even multicolored varieties. Carnations are known for their longevity, making them a practical choice for both bouquets and home arrangements. Easy to care for and widely available throughout the year, carnations are a timeless addition to any floral collection.
When they bloom: Year-round
5. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas, with their large, spherical clusters of blooms, evoke the voluminous look of peonies. These flowers symbolize gratitude and abundance, making them a popular choice for both gardens and floral arrangements. Hydrangeas are available in shades of blue, pink, white, and green, with colors often shifting based on the soil they are in. Their ability to fill space with their lush petals makes them ideal for creating statement pieces. Hydrangeas thrive in partially shaded areas with plenty of water, making them a favorite for those with a green thumb and your favorite florists.
When they bloom: Spring through summer
6. Camellias
Camellias are celebrated for their perfectly layered petals and glossy, dark green foliage, bearing a strong resemblance to peonies. Symbolizing admiration and perfection, these flowers are adored for their elegance and versatility. Camellias come in shades of red, pink, and white, making them a romantic choice for bouquets and centerpieces. They are hardy shrubs that thrive in well-drained soil and shaded conditions. With proper care, camellias can provide stunning blooms during the cooler months, making them a valuable addition to any floral arrangement.
When they bloom: Late fall through early spring
7. Garden Roses
Garden roses, with their lush, cupped blooms, are often mistaken for peonies due to their similar structure. They symbolize love, gratitude, and admiration, making them a classic choice for any special occasion. Garden roses come in a wide variety of soft and vibrant hues, including blush, cream, and coral, as well as rich reds and yellows. Unlike your standard roses, garden roses have a fuller bloom and often more fragrant, adding to their charm. These flowers thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil (be careful not to overwater).
When they bloom: Spring through fall
8. Gardenias
Gardenias are prized for their creamy white petals, glossy green leaves, and seriously hypnotizing fragrance. Their layered, soft blooms closely resemble peonies, and they symbolize purity, sweetness, and love. Gardenias are often used in bridal bouquets and elegant arrangements due to their timeless beauty. While they can be a bit temperamental, they do best in warm, humid climates and their breathtaking petals make the effort worthwhile. Gardenias bring a touch of luxury to both gardens and floral designs.
When they bloom: Late spring through summer
9. Marigolds
Marigolds are not be the most obvious peony look-alike, but their layered, ruffled petals make them a simple but beautiful alternative. Symbolizing warmth, creativity, and positivity, marigolds are often used to add bright pops of color to floral arrangements like bouquets and centerpieces. They come in impressive shades of orange, yellow, and red, making them perfect for seasonal displays. Marigolds are hardy flowers that thrive in sunny locations and require minimal maintenance, making them a favorite for gardens and outdoor events alike.
When they bloom: Late spring through fall
Order Peonies Today
Do you adore the lush beauty of the peony? We wholeheartedly agree—you’re not the only one! Don’t wait for their limited blooming season, order peonies from UrbanStems today and bring their endless charm into your home or gift them to someone special.
FAQs
Which flower is most similar to a peony?
Many flowers mimic the lush, layered look of peonies, including dahlias, anemones, ranunculus, carnations, hydrangeas, camellias, garden roses, gardenias, and marigolds. Each offers its own unique charm and versatility.
Are peony and ranunculus the same?
No, peonies and ranunculus are completely different flowers. While they do share a similar petal structure, peonies are typically larger and bloom in late spring, while ranunculus blooms in late winter to early summer.
What flowers look like peonies and roses combined?
Garden roses and camellias are perfect choices for flowers that resemble a blend of peonies and roses because they combine layered petals with a romantic appeal.
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