Zuibaichi's hundred-year-old peony blooms with record buds

In Shanghai's Songjiang district, Zuibaichi Park's century-old peony has opened its blossoms after spring rain, with 78 buds this year, the most in recent years. The spectacle launched the park's peony viewing season.

The historic Zuibaichi Park, one of Shanghai's five classical gardens dating back to the Song Dynasty (420-479), is famed for seasonal flowers and traditional landscape architecture. Peonies in spring bring crowds to its pavilions and winding paths.

The century-old peony in Zuibaichi Park is in full bloom. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh_songjiang]

The century-old peony contrasts beautifully with the classical architecture. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh_songjiang]

The iconic plant is a "Changhong" peony, a protected tree designated as the garden's treasure. It stands beside the pavilion amid classical features that reflect layers of cultural heritage.

Careful tending by gardeners helped this peony reach the record number of buds. Its deep pink blossoms, layered and lush, contrast with green foliage and classical black-tile roofs.

The bloom period for a single peony is brief. Still, park officials say nearly 100 other peonies — including Huangguan, Luoyang Red and Erqiao — are also in bloom, creating a rich tapestry of color.

Peonies in the outer garden are also in full bloom. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh_songjiang]

Visitors are advised to stagger their visits to avoid crowds and to respect the plants by not touching the flowers. The peony season is already drawing both local and international photography enthusiasts.

Zuibaichi Park remains a top spring destination in Shanghai, offering classical garden charm and vibrant peony displays that appeal to both culture lovers and nature photographers.