my tree peony is blooming…I neglect it during the winter when it needs special protection and care, but somehow the plant grew one more blossom this spring for a total of four. The warm weather this weekend brought a sudden splendor of peony flowers bursting from the tight green buds. They are large as plates that one would use for tea cakes. Thick and ruffled like petticoats. Heavy to hold in my hand, the weight of the flower pulls it downward so they appear shy or ashamed, blushing in red edges around the pale yellow petals.
Perhaps next spring, if I take better care of the plant, sheltering it from winter cold and staking the long stems for strength, I’ll be able to look my peony blossoms in the eye.
