My tree peonie is two years old. It had one small misshapen bloom last year. This year I had 6 very large buds. When 4 of the buds were in bloom, I noticed the tree was leaning precariously so I staked it. I was lucky to find a bamboo stake that was strong, but short enough so that I was able to hide it amongst the foliage.

I was just wondering if it was normal for tree peonies to need staking or if the trunk of mine is just abnormally small or weak. Also, what type and size of stakes do you use to make it esthetically pleasing?