Peony crosses
Words: Alastair Gunn
The Japanese have revered peonies Paeonia for centuries. It is therefore appropriate that this is where the first 'Itoh' or intersectional hybrids (crosses between herbaceous and tree peonies) were created.
Paeonia 'Garden Treasure' (left) is a fine intersectional selection. The lemon flowers may last up to a month. The petals have striking red flares that give the blooms a warm feel.
Cultivation needs:
- Peonies will grow in most soils apart from very wet soils, requiring a sun or partial shade.
- Plant peonies so that the roots are covered up to where the branching begins.
- Do not add manure to the soil before planting as the rich media may rot the new basal growth.
- Cut back woody growth during the winter.
Pest and diseases:
Peony wilt
More intersectional peonies
Paeonia 'Hillary'
Height: 60cm (2ft)
Spread: 90cm (3ft)
Flower description: double, ruffled appearance
Flower colour: open vibrant shrimp pink, outer petals become creamy-pink, inner petals retain their initial vibrant hue
Paeonia 'Callie's Memory'
Height: 75cm (21/2ft)
Spread: 75cm (21/2ft)
Flower description: ruffled appearance
Flower colour: consistent apricot yellow