New to the scene a few years ago was the Intersectional, or Itoh Peonies. These are hybrids between the herbaceous (one that dies back in the winter) and the tree peony. They have the huge gorgeous flowers of the tree peony and the easy care of the old fashioned peonies. The Itoh peonies are very popular because of this rugged habit, the incredible flowers and the attractive foliage. It is an outstanding and durable landscape plant.
Among others, there are:
- Bartzella – vivid lemony yellow color and fragrance
- Cora Louise – Soft white to pink-lavender petals that look like a watercolor painting.
- Kopper Kettle – the most unique golden copper colored, semi-double blooms
Proper soil preparation and planting will ensure beauty and success with peonies.
* Be sure to plant in full sun, at least six hours a day of direct sun.
* Amend the planting area with plenty of compost, about a 50/50 mix of good rich compost and existing soil.
* Add a high phosphorous organic fertilizer into the hole and swish it around before planting the root ball.
* Make sure the crown (where the roots meet the stem) is at or just above the soil line…peonies don’t like to be planted too deeply.
* Water well after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
Julia Rose Itoh Peony
Photo Credit: RadioMarz via Flickr
