The Alaska peony industry grows cut peonies that bloom in July and August, when they are generally not blooming elsewhere in the United States. It grew from research plots planted around 2001 by University of Alaska Fairbanks horticulturist Pat Holloway, and a 2025 article marked its 25th anniversary.[1]
| Research plots | About 2001 |
|---|---|
| Roots planted, 2004 | 20 |
| Roots planted, 2012 | Over 120,000 |
| Boom years | About 2014–2016 |
| Bloom window | July and August |
| Typical sale price | About $3–$5.50 per stem |
Origins
The industry traces to research by UAF horticulturist Pat Holloway, with the first research plots planted around 2001. Peony roots planted rose from 20 in 2004 to more than 120,000 in 2012, and in 2013 about 150 farmers or interested farmers attended an Alaska Peony Growers Association meeting. The boom ran roughly from 2014 to 2016.[1]
The market window
Alaska peonies bloom in July and August, during peak wedding season, when they are generally not blooming elsewhere in the country with comparable access to air transport. Growing regions named in the article include Homer, which it calls the City of Peonies and where harvest is latest in the state, the North Pole and Fairbanks area, Juneau and Willow.[1]
Economics
Historical Asian and European prices were $4 to $10 per stem, while actual Alaska sale prices were about $3 to $5.50 depending on grade, quantity, variety and market. Two farmers put break-even at $2 to $2.15 per stem, and a grower had to wait at least five years before selling anything. Alaska cut flower sales, which include diversified growers and not only peony farms, rose from about $1 million on 100 farms in 2017 to $2.4 million on 121 farms in 2022. The article notes that many farmers have come and gone.[1]
Cooperatives
Cooperatives include the Alaska Beauty Peony Co-Op, with 11 farms, and the Alaska Peony Cooperative, with six to nine farms.[1]
FAQs
When do Alaska peonies bloom? July and August.
How did the industry start? From UAF research plots planted around 2001.
Why is Alaska suited to peonies? Blooms arrive when peonies are generally not available elsewhere in the U.S.
Sources
Key facts
- Roots planted: 20 in 2004, 120,000+ in 2012
- Break-even about $2 per stem
Quick checkWhen do Alaska peonies bloom?Show answer
July and August
Sources
- University of Alaska Fairbanks. The Alaska peony industry turns 25 in 2025. 2025 (accessed 2026-11-14)
Editorially reviewed by Specialty Digest Editorial TeamLast reviewed November 14, 2026Researched and drafted with AI assistanceReport an issue