The Peonie of Carmagnola Italy
I can't say I had ever heard of Peonie.. so when we were invited to visit a nursery solely dedicated to the growing of them it was a chance to learn something new.
Gabriella Salvi Del Pero runs her nursery with her son Carlo. The location is beautiful, just a few kilometres outside Carmagnola, not a town renowned for its beauty or tourist appeal. We had met Gabriella at the Pralormo castle, she's related to the countess of Pralormo and it was then that she offered the invitation.
When a friend of our was coming to stay for the weekend we thought we might put it in the schedule as our friend Stefania Gulli is a flower arranger for weddings. When we told her about visiting the nursery she was keen.
The weather wasn't great but the spectacle was magnificent. There are 1000s of types of Peonie and they really are a feast for the eyes. Incredible design, amazing colours and all with the softness of velvet.
Gabriella was away in Rome doing a show so Carlo kindly gave us his time and knowledge. Carlo has the same qualities of his mother - very relaxed, kind and good humoured. He explained about the different types, where they had been bred and how their business works. I got the impression its not the easiest of businesses but they clearly get a lot of pleasure from doing it.
If you want something extraordinary for your garden be sure to pay them a visit. It's by appointment, so be sure to contact them first. I'm certain you will be as amazed as we were by these beautiful flowers.
Stefania Gulli's website - www.stefaniaweddings.com
Gabriella's Peonie website - www.peonie.it
