From the love at first sight of Viterbo entrepreneur Carlo Confidati with peonies came the idea of creating a garden dedicated to these colorful and fragrant plants. In Vitorchiano, in the locality of Il Pallone, is the Moutan Botanical Center, which from late March to early June allows visitors from all over the world to discover the collection of peonies of all kinds.
The Moutan Botanical Center houses an extensive plant collection, with more than 250 thousand peonies, including extremely rare hybrids and varieties. The paths are adorned with rare shrub peonies, such as P.Rockii and suffruticose peony varieties, offering a unique show during flowering. This place, ideal for botanists and nature enthusiasts, features a variety of species including peonies from the vaginatae and delavayane sections.
Especially noteworthy are the Rocki peonies, prized plants with fragrant and distinctive flowers. The collection also includes thousands of herbaceous peonies, creating a flowering carpet of pink hues over an acre of land. During April and May, visitors can enjoy the wisteria blooms along the paths, adding a touch of enchantment and fragrance to the experience.
There is also a garden restaurant inside the Center, the Colour Cafe, with colorful chairs, a refined and relaxing air (open every weekend).
When can it be visited?
Moutan Botanical Park will be open to the public until June 1 with hours from 9:30 am to 6 pm. The main blooms in May are Rocki peonies (until May 10) and herbaceous peonies (May 10-31). Updates on the bloom can be found on the center’s social channels.
How much does admission cost
Tickets cost €5 (full), €3 (reduced) and are free for children under 10. Dogs are allowed on a leash.