Peonies have a rich and fascinating history in France, dating back to the 19th century. During this time, peonies were highly prized by the French aristocracy and became a symbol of wealth and status. This passion for peonies led to a flurry of plant exploration and horticultural innovation that helped to establish these beautiful flowers as a timeless symbol of luxury and elegance.
One of the most notable figures in this regard was Empress Josephine, the wife of Napoleon Bonaparte. Josephine was an avid collector of peonies and was particularly fond of the double-flowered varieties, which were considered the most luxurious and expensive at the time. She commissioned the famous French artist, Pierre-Joseph Redouté, to create a series of exquisite watercolor paintings of her beloved peonies, which are now regarded as some of the most beautiful botanical illustrations ever produced. Josephine's love of peonies was not just a horticultural passion, but also a style statement that cemented her status as a fashion icon of her time.
The passion for peonies in France continued with the work of renowned horticulturists like Victor Lemoine, who is often referred to as the "father of the modern peony." Lemoine became famous for his work in developing the double-flowered peonies, which were highly coveted by collectors and gardeners alike. His peonies were not only prized for their beauty, but also for their remarkable resilience and hardiness, which made them ideal for cultivation in a variety of climates.
Another French plant collector who was passionate about peonies was François Crouzet, who traveled to China in the late 19th century in search of new and unusual plant species. Crouzet was particularly interested in the tree peony, a relative of the herbaceous peony that was relatively unknown in Europe at the time. He succeeded in bringing back several species of tree peonies, which he introduced to European gardeners and collectors. These tree peonies became an instant sensation and were highly prized for their exquisite beauty and unusual form.
At Natchez Glen House, we are inspired by the rich history of peonies in France and the enduring passion and dedication of those who helped to establish these beautiful flowers as a symbol of luxury, elegance, and beauty. We strive to honor this legacy by offering a wide selection of the most beautiful and unique peony varieties from around the world, and we invite you to join us in our passion for these exquisite blooms.
Whether you're a passionate gardener, a lover of fashion and style, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and grace of nature, peonies have something to offer. From their exquisite beauty and rich history to their enduring appeal as a symbol of luxury and elegance, peonies are truly a flower that captures the heart and inspires the imagination.