DutchGrown Peony Canary Brilliants

Intersectional peonies, also known as Itoh peonies, are a cross between tree peonies and herbaceous peonies. This results in a plant that combines the sturdy, woody stems and long-lasting blooms of a tree peony with the winter-hardy, herbaceous nature of a garden peony.

While it is possible to see a bloom in the first season, Itoh peonies often take a year or two to establish their root systems fully. You should expect the most impressive, profuse flowering starting in the second or third year after planting.

Because these peonies reach a mature height of 40 to 50 inches and have a substantial spread, you should space them at least 3 feet apart. This ensures good air circulation, which helps prevent fungal issues and allows the plant to reach its full potential.

Yes, they can thrive in containers, provided you use a large, deep pot with excellent drainage. Given their mature size, a container with a diameter of at least 18 to 20 inches is recommended to accommodate their root system.

One of the primary benefits of the Itoh hybrid is its strong, woody stems. Unlike many traditional herbaceous peonies that require support to keep heavy blooms from drooping, this variety is generally self-supporting and rarely requires staking.

Once the flowers fade, deadhead the spent blooms to keep the plant tidy. Leave the foliage intact throughout the summer and into the fall, as the leaves are essential for photosynthesis, which stores the energy the plant needs to produce flowers for the following year.