It’s the most wonderful time of the year.

‘Tis the season for one of the world’s most insanely gorgeous flower. My love for peonies dates back to the late 80’s when my mom started growing them in our yard. Our neighbor Grace (who has long passed, RIP to a wonderful artist, gardener, and human being) gave mom some clippings one day and the rest is blossoming beauty history.  Maybe it’s because they originate in Asia like me, but very little beats the ginormous release of endorphins in my brain when I feast my eyes on these beauties.

Today, as a pre-Mother’s Day treat to the person who introduced me to what has become an obsession of mine, mom and I journeyed to Chateau CharMarron, otherwise known as Peony Paradise to peeps like me. If you live in the Bay Area, GO GO GO.

Without further ado, I give you Eye Candy on Crack.

My favorite. Its name is “Adonis” because it is pretty close to being my God of beauty and desire.

Oui oui!

Pink overload. My favorite color for these beauties.

They’re in full bloom now, so don’t wait to see them here or at your local farm. In fact, I observed a few sadly wilting away already. They typically bloom from April to June, with mid May being the peak of the season.

Chateau CharMarron sells them in pots ranging from $40 to $50. For some reason, they are not selling cut flowers this year. But don’t worry, you can get a bunch (5 stems) from your local Trader Joe’s for $6.99.

THAT’S what I call peonies envy.

This gallery is for my fab mom. I don’t believe in making a big to-do about Mother’s Day mostly because I believe you should love and honor your mama EVERY day, but for those of you who are doing the fancy brunch and all that, Happy Mother’s Day!

Chateau CharMarron

5335 Sierra Road
San Jose, CA 95132
408-251-7048

Hours:

Wed, Sat & Sun 9am-6pm
Thurs & Fri 12:30pm-6pm
Closed Mon & Tues