MISSION & HISTORY
Who We Are
The Canadian Peony Society is a national non-profit, volunteer led organization dedicated to promoting the cultivation and enjoyment of peonies in Canada. Through educational opportunities provided by our publications and programs, we aim to connect the public with peonies and to bring like-minded enthusiasts together. We are always looking for new members and enthusiasts to join the Society, so join us and come and share your passion! Use the button below to learn about the many benefits of membership and to join the CPS today.
OUr mission
The Canadian Peony Society's mission is to promote the growth and use of peonies in the garden and for home decoration, to encourage peony hybridization to improve the peony and to produce distinctly Canadian hybrids, to locate and record locally bred peonies, and to encourage peony exhibitions and events in Canada.
Our mission is supported by our activities, which include sharing educational content through our newsletters, webinars, social media accounts, and website, maintaining a list and photo collection of Canadian-introduced peonies, assisting public gardens in assembling peony collections, offering donated peony seeds and roots to our members, awarding remarkable cultivars and volunteers, and providing opportunities for peony enthusiasts to connect and meet.
OUR HISTORY
The Canadian Peony Society was founded on June 14, 1998, by John Simkins of Oakville, Ontario, at the Royal Botanical Gardens (Hamilton, Ontario). The Society was built on the core values of education and conservation and was the result of a vision and desire to, at long last, build a nationwide network of connected peony enthusiasts. Many of the programs and initiatives introduced by the founding members remain important staples of the Society as it exists today.
On June 10, 2023, the CPS was hosted by the 19th Annual Oshawa Peony Festival at the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens to celebrate its 25th anniversary. During this joyous celebration, the CPS reflected on the shared memories, peonies, and people that shaped the Society, and looked ahead to a bright and inspiring future for the Society, its members, and the state of peonies in Canada. See photo gallery of the 25th anniversary.
Today, the CPS is a beautiful mosaic composed of a diverse membership base with a broad spectrum of knowledge, experience, educational goals, and geographic spread.
John Simkins, CPS Founding President
Past Presidents of the CPS
CPS 25th Anniverary Convention at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens
Diana, member, representing the CPS at the Calgary Gardeners’ Market
‘Etched Salmon’, 2021 CPS Peony of the Year
NATIONAL AND REGIONAL SHOWS
Peony shows bring enthusiasts together to celebrate the beauty, diversity and quality of peonies. At national and regional events, amateur and professional growers have the opportunity to display their blooms, discover outstanding cultivars, exchange knowledge and connect with fellow peony lovers. These shows also invite the public to discover and appreciate peonies, while strengthening the peony community across Canada.
Members can learn more about national and regional shows in the CPS Newsletter, available through the Members-Only section.
Who We Are
The Canadian Peony Society brings together people who share a passion for peonies. Whether a beginner or an experienced grower, everyone is welcome! Join us to discover new varieties, learn from fellow enthusiasts and celebrate the beauty of peonies.
Support The Society
Support the Canadian Peony Society. Click the "Donate" button below. Enter the amount you wish to donate in Canadian dollars. You have the option of paying using any major credit card or by Paypal.
Contact Info
Canadian Peony Society
4338 Line 26
St. Pauls, ON N0K 1V0
info@peony.ca