Deep maroon-black semi-double blooms with a heart of golden stamens. The most dramatic dark peony, blooming early when nothing else is open.
The ASPCA lists peony (Paeonia officinalis) as toxic to cats and dogs, and to horses. Eating it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and listlessness. The ASPCA names that one species, but ours are the same genus, so give them the same caution, and keep a vase of cut stems out of a cat's reach.
For gardeners who like to stay ahead.