VU Botanical Garden Names a Peony Variety After M. K. Čiurlionis – Invites Visitors to an Exhibition in Kairėnai

To commemorate the 150th anniversary of Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis’ birth, Vilnius University Botanical Garden has named a hybrid variety of Paeonia lactiflora (Chinese peony) after the artist. This cultivar, along with other ornamental plant species and varieties, will be presented to the public during the exhibition “Blooms for the 150th Anniversary of M. K. Čiurlionis”, planned for the second quarter of 2025 at the VU Botanical Garden in Kairėnai.

At the exhibition, visitors will be introduced to unique flower varieties developed by Lithuanian plant breeders, as well as some of the most decorative, fragrant, medicinal, culinary, and aromatic plants from Lithuania’s flora. In addition to peonies, the exhibition will also showcase other flower varieties, including the latest achievements in plant breeding.

There are about 40 species of peonies in nature and thousands of cultivars. While the rose is often called the queen of flowers, the peony could rightfully be considered the emperor of blossoms. Peonies have long been valued not only for their beauty but also for their medicinal properties. Historically, they were grown in monastery gardens, used in traditional medicine, and became a source of inspiration for poets, painters, and musicians. Their blooms adorned porcelain and silk and came to symbolize feminine beauty, love, prosperity, and a connection to one's homeland.

Currently, the VU Botanical Garden maintains a collection of 310 peony cultivars.

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EVENT INFORMATION

Date and Time: June 13–15, 2025

Location: VU Botanical Garden, Kairėnai

Address: Kairėnų St. 43, Vilnius

Admission: The event is free of charge, but standard park entrance fees apply.

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ORGANIZER

Vilnius University Botanical Garden

Contact: info@botanika.vu.lt / +370 5 231 79 30

Program

Exhibition "Flowers for M. K. Čiurlionis' 150th Anniversary"

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