Paeonia Itoh Hillary

The 'Hillary' Itoh Peony is in a category of hybrids resulting from crossbreeding between a tree peony and an herbaceous peony, characterised by significant growth as well as the production of flowers similar to those of tree varieties, carried on very sturdy stems that do not bend under the weight of the flowers. This one offers large corollas, double to semi-double, slightly scented, in shades of pink and apricot, stained with dark red at the base. This variety also offers beautiful, finely cut foliage that remains impeccable until late in the season. An extraordinary peony, to be showcased 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 carried out by Japanese breeder Toichi Itoh, starting in 1948, who bequeathed them his name. These plants, also called intersectional peonies, are exceptional perennials that bring together the qualities of herbaceous and tree species, combining the vigour of the former with all the splendour of the latter, in terms of both foliage and flowering.

'Hillary' was obtained in 1999 by Anderson. The plant reaches maturity forming a large clump reaching 70 to 80 cm (28 to 32in) in height with a spread of 60 cm (24in), sometimes more. Its growth is rather slow, but faster than that of tree peonies. This peony develops large deciduous leaves, alternate, composed of pointed leaflets. Flowering lasts a month from May 5th to June 5th, and is abundant. Semi-rigid, very firm leafy stems appear, carrying large buds at their tip that open into large solitary, double flowers, 15-18 cm (6-7in) in diameter. They are composed of numerous slightly translucent petals, washed with bright pink on an apricot background, stained with red at the base. These flowers are very beautiful, but also slightly scented. The plant disappears in winter, surviving in the form of buds located at the soil surface.

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

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

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