American Peony Society Statement

The American Peony Society and this Peony Garden have a deep relationship that began in the 1920s. Indeed, the APS was founded in Detroit, Michigan in 1903, and by 1923, Dr. W.E. Upjohn was the society’s Treasurer.

In 1928 the Regents of the University of Michigan acknowledged the resolution by the Directors of the American Peony Society recognizing the then-new Peony Garden at the Nichols Arboretum. This acknowledgment underscored the intent to establish a major peony collection

The American Peony Society’s mission is to provide educational opportunities and support activities that improve the ‘Peony’. Through programs, publications, electronic media, events and cultivar registration, the society accomplishes this mission.

First and foremost, the American Peony Society strives to bring people and the peony together.