Paeonia Itoh Julia Rose

The Julia Rose Itoh Peony is part of a category of hybrids resulting from a cross between a tree peony and an herbaceous peony, characterised by significant growth and the production of flowers similar to those of tree varieties, carried on very strong stems that do not bend under the weight of the flowers. This one is equipped with rather unusual flowers of tender multicoloured hues. Different shades of pink and apricot on a soft yellow background jostle on semi-double and slightly ruffled corollas of a beautiful size. This variety blooms rather late, towards the end of May.

This opulent hybrid herbaceous peony belongs, like its two parents, to the peony family. Itoh peonies are the result of the work carried out by the Japanese breeder Toichi Itoh, starting in 1948, who bequeathed them his name. These plants, known as 'intersectional', are exceptional perennials that bring together the qualities of herbaceous and tree species, combining the vigour of herbaceous peonies with all the splendour of tree peonies, in terms of both foliage and flowering.

'Julia Rose' is a creation by Anderson dating from 1989. The plant reaches maturity with a clump of about 75 cm (30in) in height with a spread of 60 cm (24in), sometimes more. Its growth is rather slow, but faster than that of tree peonies. The plant develops large deciduous leaves, alternate, composed of dark green and pointed leaflets. The flowering takes place for one month precisely from May 25th to June 25th, and in abundance. Semi-rigid leafy stems appear carrying large buds at their tips that open into large solitary, semi-double flowers, 16 cm (6in) in diameter. They are composed of petals with a silky appearance, presenting a wide range of colours, starting with a pretty deep old pink at the base. The centre of the flower is occupied by cream-colored stamens. The plant disappears in winter, surviving in the form of buds located at the surface of the soil.

The Itoh Peony hates heavy waterlogged soils, especially in winter, and appreciates partially 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 in a shrub or perennial bed. They create beautiful combinations with irises or roses, as well as catmints, foxgloves, bellflowers, lupins, columbines, or daisies. Cut peony flowers are truly wonderful in a bouquet with lilacs and bellflowers.

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