COTTON CANDY

Originator: Anderson, R.F., 1992
Colour: Pink blush fading to white
Form: Double

Bloom Time: Late

Side Buds: None yet observed, but likely
Height: Short- around 30 inches

Fragrance: Yes
Peony Group: Lactiflora

Distinction: Best landscaper, cut flower, self supporting

APS Registry Entry: https://americanpeonysociety.org/cultivars/peony-registry/cotton-candy/

Click image to enlarge.

Description: A complete anomaly delivered by a serendipitous turn of events. This plant is bred by the legendary Roger Anderson, however no one appears to have it - even the APS registry does not have an image. My source for the plant was an obscure European one and while I had my doubts, the more I observe this plant the more I suspect it is a Roger Anderson lactiflora; that is to say that it has been phenomenal in its first few years with me. 

Flowers are a flattish double and start off suffused with a pink blush that bleaches in the sun producing a pink centre, like mentioned in the registry entry. The plant has very thick stems and is extremely compact in that it is both short and also in that it holds the flowers very close to the foliage. As a result, it has a stout stance that will be unbothered by inclement weather and sits like a rock close to the earth. I cannot say enough about it's plant habit and I'm excited to get this plant into other folks' gardens - especially those who are captivate by the lactiflora look and associated qualities, like fragrance.