Wild Peony

Poisonous

Wild Peony commonly blooms from January to April. Its flowers have petals the color of red-wine, are about an inch and a half long, and have a heavy-looking, downward- cupped shape. The roots of Wild Peony have quite a history of medicinal uses. Somewhat of an oxymoron as it is also said that even small doses can cause nausea.

Pets and young children naturally have an inquisitive nature, and the lovely Peony contains a toxin called paeonol which is concentrated in the roots and bark. If ingested in large amounts, paeonol can cause gastrointestinal problems in humans and animals.