Red Peony Flower Head Has 3 Buds In Centre, What Are These, And Actions Needed?

Question

What are these buds?

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Answer 1

Those are premature seed pods! The plant can be under some stress, and require fungicides. The browning edges confirm this.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/treating-botrytis-blight.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/biofungicide-information.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/peony/peony-care.htm