Chinese Peony, Garden Peony 'Goldmine'

Bred by Unknown Chinese Breeder(s) (China, circa 1100)

I purchased the Goldmine Peony in 2003 for $100. The crown was of average size with probably two or three eyes. Compared to other peoni...Read Morees planted at the same time, it has developed very slowly. It is smaller and more frail than the other peonies. It flowered for the first time this year (2006) with two flowers. I was very disappointed. They are more of a cream color -- at best, you would say they were a very pale yellow. You don't really even notice they are yellow unless you compare them to a white peony. The flowers are quite a bit smaller than expected, and not very full for a double peony.

However, it is a very pretty plant. The foliage is a lighter, brighter green than my other peonies, and it doesn't seem to be bothered by any type of pest or problems. If it wasn't for the very high cost, I would probably have given it at least a neutral. Because the flower is such a pale yellow, though, I wouldn't give it a positive rating even if it were cheaper.