06/12/2026
The topic of to***co rattle virus (TRV) has come up more and more often the last several years and it’s not only disheartening but also highly controversial. But this post serves as good news!
Here, I would’ve said this plant exhibited TRV, hands down, but it did not have TRV after testing. It’s still not in the clear, but at least it doesn’t have TRV. Peonies can also have other related viruses… cucumber, tomato, pea, etc. They can also have other issues that mimic the symptoms of TRV. (As a Kansas Citian, it would be remiss of me if I didn’t point out this helpful article from the Missouri Botanical Garden detailing various diseases: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/visual-guides/peony-problems. An article dedicated to TRV from Washington State University is also extremely helpful: https://plants.alaska.gov/pdf/Tobacco%20Rattle%20Virus_Peony.pdf)
TRV can only be verified with testing which includes microscopy and/or DNA testing. Without this, it’s just a best guess.
So many potted and loose bagged peonies sold in big box stores and in nurseries here in the U.S. are from (foreign) growers where the mechanization process just doesn’t allow for effective and efficient culling. I would venture to wager that one should just go ahead and assume their peony from these vendors has TRV than not. Hence, the argument to buy from reputable local/domestic growers.
Traditional practice for TRV has been to destroy and not compost the specimen as well as not plant in the same soil for some time. However, I fall into the camp that prefers to “wait and see.” I understand this is a minority opinion (as of now), but draw your own conclusions after at least thinking it through.
Sure, there are instances where you should destroy. If you propagate roots/tubers for sale, the ethical thing would be to destroy. If you’re concerned with it spreading, can’t isolate the plant, can’t properly disinfect your tools, etc., then destroy. However, if you only do cut flower production, are a hobbyist, aren’t concerned with it spreading, can isolate, can properly disinfect disinfect your tools, the plant has historical or sentimental significance, the plant is otherwise healthy year over year, etc., then I’d consider waiting and seeing.
Personally, we have over 1500 specimens. We do have a handful that have shown signs of TRV. We’ve had specimens sent to our local extension office to be tested, only to be told they don’t have the adequate tools to definitively tell us and based on visual observation, could only “agree with my findings.” All of our plants with signs have been healthy year over year.
Before you tear out plant after plant or stress over it, just take a deep breath… TRV isn’t a death sentence to your peony… or your garden!
