The Brave New World of Itoh Peonies

Some of the most exciting advancements in gardening have come from hybridization—crossing two distinct species that would never naturally intersect, resulting in horticultural hybrids unlike anything previously seen. Itoh peonies are a remarkable example of this groundbreaking innovation.

The Pioneering Work of Toichi Itoh

Toichi Itoh pioneered Itoh or intersectional peonies in Japan in the 1950s, making thousands of crosses between garden and tree peonies attempting to create a bold yellow herbaceous peony. He was successful yet died before he could see his crosses in bloom. His plants were brought to the United States in the 1970s where various other breeders took up the challenge. In honour of his pioneering work these hybrid peonies are usually called Itoh peonies.

From Rarity to Accessibility

For many years Itoh peonies were only available by division. Since bulking up peonies is a slow process this meant that Itohs remained quite expensive and rare for many years. At this time a small root of ‘Bartzella’ would easily sell for $300 each! Attempts at tissue culture or micropropagation seemed impossible to those attempting it until a company in Quebec called Planteck made a breakthrough. Today they can mass produce Itoh peonies by tissue culture rather than by division. The process remains time-intensive and relatively costly, with peonies growing at a slow pace. However, this innovation has significantly reduced costs, making them more accessible to the average gardener seeking something unique.

The Unique Appeal of Itoh Peonies

Itoh peonies are herbaceous peonies that die back to the ground each fall though they may develop a woody base with time. In spring, they emerge with fresh foliage reminiscent of tree peonies, adorned with hues of red and burgundy. As the foliage slowly turns to green, the plants begin to form buds. The flowers can grow as large as your face and come in a stunning array of colours, including white, red, pink, peach, magenta, near-orange, and various shades of yellow. A mature plant can produce 30 or more blooms each season. Itohs are hardy to zone 3. Many Prairie gardeners have great success growing them, with some even thriving in zone 2! For zones 4 and below, it’s essential to mulch thoroughly and pile extra snow on top during the winter for added protection.

With their remarkable hardiness and stunning beauty, Itoh peonies make a truly special addition to any Canadian garden.

Each year at Phoenix Perennials we offer many different Itoh peony cultivars both potted and bare root for in-person shopping or cross-Canada shipping.

Give Your Garden the Phoenix Perennials Touch:

At Phoenix Perennials, we offer over 5,000 unique plants each year for in-person shopping at our garden centre and online plant nursery in Richmond, British Columbia, part of the Greater Vancouver area. In addition, we provide over 3,000 different plants annually for mail-order shipping across Canada. Stay up to date with our wide range of offerings and all things Phoenix Perennials by subscribing to our E-Newsletter and Alerts, and connecting with us on social media. Happy gardening!