Paeonia Itoh Bartzella - Itoh Peony

The 'Itoh Bartzella' Peony belongs to a category of hybrids resulting from a cross-breeding between a bush peony and an herbaceous peony, characterized by significant development as well as the production of flowers similar to those of bush varieties, carried by very sturdy stems that do not bend under the weight of the flowers. This one offers very large flowers, double to semi-double, for a month, with a slightly maculated light lemon yellow color with red at the base. This variety also offers beautiful dark green cut foliage that stays impeccable until late in the season. A low-maintenance and fantastic plant, destined for a bright future in flower beds.

This opulent hybrid herbaceous peony belongs, like its two parents, to the paeoniaceae family. Itoh peonies are the result of the work conducted by the Japanese breeder Toichi Itoh, starting in 1948, who gave them his name. These plants, referred to as intersectional, are exceptional perennials that combine the qualities of herbaceous and bush species, combining the vigor of herbaceous with all the splendor of bush, both in terms of foliage and flowering.

'Bartzella' reaches an opulent tuft at maturity, reaching a height of 70 to 80 cm (28 to 32in) with a spread of 60cm (24in), sometimes more. Its growth is rather slow, but faster than that of bush peonies. The plant develops large deciduous leaves, alternate, composed of dark green and pointed leaflets. The flowering takes place precisely from May 15th to June 15th, for a month and in abundance. Semi-rigid leafy stems appear, carrying at their end large buds that open into large solitary double flowers, 20-22cm (8-9in) in diameter. They are composed of numerous slightly translucent petals, light and vivid lemon yellow enhanced with small red areas at the base. These flowers are very beautiful, but also slightly fragrant. The plant disappears in winter, remaining in the form of buds located on the surface of the soil.

The Itoh Peony dreads heavy waterlogged soils, especially in winter, and appreciates semi-shaded locations such as the edge of a grove or the shelter of a hedge. It is an exceptional plant that deserves a prime location. It is often planted in groups of 3 plants in a shrub or perennial bed. They make beautiful combinations with irises or roses, as well as catmints, foxgloves, lupins, and marguerites. Cut flowers in a bouquet are truly wonderful with lilacs and bellflowers.

Tip: Herbaceous peonies should not be buried more than 3cm (1in) deep, otherwise they will take several years to reflower.

The parents of the first intersectional peony were respectively the variety 'Alice Harding' (Syn. 'Soleil d'Or' or 'Kinku') and the P. lactiflora 'Kakoden'. Ironically, it only bloomed after its creator's death.