Welcome to the magnificent world of Itoh peonies! Also known as intersectional hybrid peonies, these striking, resilient perennials are the result of crossing herbaceous and tree peonies. Similar to bushy, herbaceous peonies, Itoh peonies display a mounded growth pattern and wither back to the earth during the cold season. But like tree peonies, Itoh peonies also yield huge flowers. These exquisite blooms open in an extensive range of colours, shapes and sizes.
Types of Itoh Peonies
Over time, a variety of beautiful and vibrant Itoh peonies have been developed, each offering a unique charm. Here are some of the well-loved Itoh peony varieties:
Bartzella: Known for its large, lemon-yellow blooms and pleasant fragrance.
Julia Rose Itoh Peony: Enchants with its stunning, colour-changing blossoms from cherry red to apricot.
Cora Louise: Delights with its semi-double white flowers tinged with lavender at the centre.
Canary Brilliants: Offers butter-yellow flowers that radiate pink at their heart.
Morning Lilac: Mesmerizes with its purple flowers and golden centre.
• Garden Treasure: Loved for its vibrant yellow blossoms and enduring bloom season.
How to Grow Itoh Peonies From Roots
Growing Itoh peonies requires a bit of patience but is a rewarding endeavor. Because they are sterile and don’t yield viable seeds, they are propagated by planting divided bareroots of the plants. The best-performing root divisions have at least 2–3 “eyes,” the nubby growing points that are potential flower stems. These eyes can be white, red or pink.
It might take up to three years for Itoh peony plants to reach their peak blooming stage, but the wait is worth it. They thrive best in a temperature range of 65–75 degrees Fahrenheit. With traits borrowed from both parent plants, Itoh peonies are robust, with the capacity to be propagated by dividing roots after a few years.
When to Grow Itoh Peonies
It’s best to plant Itoh peonies in the fall, which allows them to establish their root systems before winter sets in. Planting in autumn also provides the plants with a cool and moist environment that promotes root growth without the stress of hot temperatures. Specific ideal planting times can vary depending on your location and climate. When established, Itoh peonies adjust well to the various seasons in most regions, making them a versatile plant choice.
Where to Grow Itoh Peonies
Itoh peonies thrive in well-drained, fertile soils and are hardy in zones 4–8. A full sun to partial shade location is ideal for them, offering a balance between sunlight exposure and heat protection. An Itoh peony plant can range from 2–3′ in height, while larger blooms extend up to 7″ across. The bloom duration tends to be longer when they are grown in light shade. Itoh peonies can be planted in containers, though this might require more diligent care and repotting to accommodate their growth.
How to Plant an Itoh Peony
When planting an Itoh peony, the bareroot should be placed so the eyes are 1″ below the soil surface. Space the plants about 2–3′ apart to allow for healthy growth. They typically need to be watered twice a week, and a slow-release, balanced plant food, such as Breck’s Food for Bulbs and Perennials, is recommended at planting time and again in midsummer.
Itoh Peony Care
Care for your Itoh peonies includes timely pruning and propagation by root division. When receiving a potted nursery plant, planting it quickly is crucial for its survival. In colder areas, plant the peonies a bit deeper to protect them from freezing temperatures. One of the many advantages of Itoh peonies is their inherited strong stems from tree peonies, eliminating the need for staking.
Pest & Disease Control
Itoh peonies are not commonly affected by pests and diseases, thanks to their hybrid vigour. However, watch out for threats like beetles and mildew. They are resistant to various types of peony blight, such as Botrytis, but proper care is always necessary to maintain their health.
FAQs About Growing Itoh Peonies
How big do Itoh peonies get?
Itoh peonies can grow up to 2–3′ in height and have blooms that can extend up to 7″ across.
What can be planted to complement my Itoh peonies?
Try combining your Itoh peonies with other late spring-blooming perennials such as Siberian irises, bearded irises, alliums and salvia.
How do you winterize an Itoh peony?
To winterize an Itoh peony, you can cut back the foliage to ground level after the first frost and apply a generous layer of mulch over the planting area for added protection. For potted peonies, moving the container to a sheltered location is recommended.
Wrapping It Up
Growing and caring for Itoh peonies is an enriching experience. With their resilient nature, captivating colours and sizeable blooms, they transform gardens into vibrant landscapes. Don’t miss out on experiencing the joy of tending to these magnificent hybrids!
So go on, add some Itoh peonies to your garden and let the enchanting journey begin!
