One of the great historic white peonies and a defining late-season double. The very large blooms open compact and lemon-white, strongly suffused with warm yellow from hidden stamens, and then expand into broad, globular flowers of refined white. Occasional crimson touches on a few inner petals add quiet depth without disrupting the flower’s elegance. Richly fragrant and long admired for its finish, it remains a benchmark among classic whites.

Plants are compact and sturdy with stout stems and good substance, producing fewer but exceptionally large, well-formed blooms. Burgundy-tinged spring foliage matures to deep green, completing a composed and traditional plant habit. Marie Lemoine’s enduring reputation rests on refinement rather than excess—a hallmark of the finest 19th-century breeding.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Marie Lemoine is a true heritage white—fragrant, massive, and historically significant. Its restrained flowering, exceptional bloom quality, and unmistakable old-world character make it a must-have for collectors who value classic form and pedigree.