Bloom Love Blog

Key Details About the Popular ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ Peony

Jan 30, 2024 | Fun Facts, Peonies, Sarah Bernhardt

With its large, fragrant pink blooms, 'Sarah Bernhardt' is considered one of the finest peony varieties, cherished for over 100 years. A true classic.

  • Type - 'Sarah Bernhardt' is a classic double bomb peony. It is an herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora).
  • Bloom color - Soft apple-blossom pink with a golden glow at the center.
  • Blooming season - Late spring.
  • Flower size - Large, fully double blooms grow up to 20 cm across.
  • Plant height - Grows 90 cm tall on strong stems.
  • Foliage - Deep green leaves with a lush, full habit.
  • Fragrance - Very fragrant, with a sweet, rosy scent.
  • Unique traits - Exceptionally beautiful and vigorous. Prolific bloomer year after year.
  • Awards - One of the top exhibition peonies. Multiple international awards.
  • Care - Grows best in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil.
  • Uses - Gorgeous in bouquets and garden borders. Popular commercially grown cut flower.
  • Propagation - By division of roots in early fall. May take 3+ years to establish.
  • Hardiness - Should do well in most inland areas of South Africa above 600m elevation.