Yuan Zhen, a renowned Chinese poet and writer of the Tang Dynasty, is affectionately known as the "Peony Lord" due to his profound connection with the flower. His reputation as the Peony Lord stems from his extensive and celebrated works that often feature the peony, a symbol of elegance and prosperity in Chinese culture. Yuan Zhen's admiration for the peony is evident in his poetry, where he frequently uses the flower as a metaphor for beauty, resilience, and the fleeting nature of life. His detailed descriptions and emotional portrayal of the peony have cemented his legacy as a master of floral poetry.

The data supporting Yuan Zhen's title as the Peony Lord comes from his own works, which contain numerous references to the flower. For instance, in his poem "Peony," Yuan Zhen writes, "The peony blooms in the spring, its beauty unparalleled, / Like a jade vase, it holds the essence of the world." This passage not only highlights the peony's aesthetic appeal but also suggests its significance in the broader context of nature and the cosmos. Additionally, Yuan Zhen's "Peony Pavilion" is a notable example of his literary prowess, where the peony serves as a central theme and symbolizes the protagonist's love and longing.

Historical records and scholarly analyses further underscore Yuan Zhen's status as the Peony Lord. According to the "Tangshi Jishi" (Tang Dynasty History), Yuan Zhen was particularly fond of the peony, and his admiration was well-known among his contemporaries. Furthermore, the "Tangshi" (Tang Dynasty Poetry) contains over 200 poems attributed to Yuan Zhen, with a significant number of them focusing on the peony. This extensive body of work has contributed to his enduring reputation as the preeminent poet of the flower.

In conclusion, Yuan Zhen's title as the Peony Lord is a testament to his deep connection with the flower and his exceptional ability to capture its essence in his poetry. His works not only celebrate the beauty of the peony but also reflect his own philosophical views on life and nature. The extensive use of the peony as a metaphor and symbol in his poetry, coupled with historical evidence and scholarly recognition, solidifies his status as the Peony Lord in the annals of Chinese literature.