Paeonia ‘Itoh Hybrid’
A miraculous hybrid between tree and herbaceous peonies, having the large flowers that don’t need staking with lobed foliage lasting through autumn.
|
height |
3–4 |
|
width |
3–4 |
|
tolerates |
Cold |
|
water
needs |
Moderate – High |
|
hardy
to |
-25F |
|
exposure |
Part Sun – Full Sun |
|
indoor
outdoor |
Outdoor |
|
drainage |
In Ground: Planting Mix, In Pots: Potting Soil |
|
fertilizing |
Bloom |
|
origin |
Hybrid, China |
Growing Notes
This is a deciduous plant that loses its leaves during winter when it should be cut back to six inches from the ground.
Like tree peony these hybrids have long lasting blooms that don’t require staking to stand on their own. The flowers perform best with a little shade, but the foliage looks best in full sun, so finding a balance in the location is important.
Use a low nitrogen fertilizer for best results and only fertilize in spring and early summer.
Deadhead in spring and summer to encourage new blossoms.
Special Interest
In the early 20th century horticulturists thought it impossible to hybridize tree and hergacios peonys, as everyone who tried failed. But, in 1948, after a life of attempts and failures Japanese horticulturist Dr. Toichi Itoh successfully hybridized them, doing the impossible. Unfortunately, he didn’t live to see them bloom, a true tragedy. Soon after their hybridization these peony sold for astronomic prices - up-to $1,000!
