Gyűjteményes generációk közötti bazsarózsák - Paeonia 'First Arrival' (Itoh csoport)

Paeonia 'First Arrival' , a peony from the Itoh group (intersection hybrid), is a herbaceous perennial in the Paeoniaceae family, renowned for its semi-double, vibrant lavender-pink flowers and early flowering. Created by Roger F. Anderson in 1986, this variety combines the characteristics of shrub and herbaceous peonies, offering spectacular flowers, sturdy stems and decorative foliage. It is ideal for ornamental gardens, borders, containers or as a cut flower, due to its unusual colour and abundant flowering.

Appearance of leaves, flowers and fruits

• Leaves : The leaves are compound, divided into elliptical or lanceolate leaflets, of a dark, glossy green. In spring, the new foliage appears purplish-red, gradually changing to a deep green. In autumn, the leaves may take on copper or reddish hues, adding seasonal interest. The foliage is dense, disease-resistant and remains attractive throughout the season.
• Flowers : The flowers are semi-double, 15-20 cm in diameter, formed by wide petals, of a deep lavender-pink, with paler tones towards the edges. The center of the flower features golden yellow stamens and subtle purple spots (flares), creating an elegant contrast. The color fades slightly to cream-pink as the flower matures. The flowers are lightly scented and appear early in the season (May), being among the first Itoh peonies to bloom, with up to 30-50 flowers on a mature plant. The sturdy stems do not require support.
• Fruit : Produces small, green capsules that dry in autumn, containing seeds. These have no ornamental value and are rarely used for propagation due to their hybrid nature.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Reaches 60-80 cm tall and 60-90 cm wide, forming a compact, rounded bush with sturdy stems.
• Vigor : Moderately fast growing, with short, partially woody stems that start at ground level. It inherits the vigor of shrub peonies and the herbaceous character of garden peonies.
• Type : Herbaceous perennial, with stems that die to the ground in winter, but the roots survive and regenerate in spring.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day) for maximum flowering, but tolerates partial shade, where blooms may be fewer. Avoid dense shade, which reduces vigor.
• Soil : Grows in fertile, moist, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Add compost or organic matter before planting to improve drainage and fertility. Does not tolerate heavy or waterlogged soils.
• Watering : Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. During dry periods, water deeply, especially in the first year. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
• Temperature : Hardy in zones 4-8 (down to -29°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Tolerates winters well, but mulch the roots in very cold areas for protection.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : Robust, with excellent disease and pest resistance. Tolerates wind and rain due to firm stems. Rarely affected by mildew or aphids; inspect occasionally and use organic methods if necessary.
• Fertilization : Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) in the spring, when shoots appear, and once after flowering. Avoid excess nitrogen, which stimulates foliage at the expense of flowers.
• Pruning : Cut stems to ground level in fall after foliage dies down. Remove spent flowers to maintain a tidy appearance. Does not require frequent division and can remain undisturbed for years.
• Propagation : Propagate by division of roots in the fall, but the process is slow due to the hybrid nature. Seeds are not viable.

Paeonia 'First Arrival' is ideal for ornamental gardens, borders, containers or as a cut flower. Its lavender-pink flowers add a delicate focal point, combining well with contrasting plants such as sage, lavender or white ornamental grasses. The decorative foliage and autumn colouring enhance the appeal. It is suitable for cottage gardens, modern landscapes or as an accent plant. It attracts bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Created by Roger F. Anderson in 1986, the Peony 'First Arrival' is an Itoh hybrid, resulting from the crossing of a herbaceous peony with a shrub peony. Prized for its early flowering and lavender-pink color, it is one of the most popular Itoh varieties, widely grown in Europe and North America.

Flowering season: May - June

Pot size: 21 cm
Height with pot included: varies depending on the season

Note: the degree of development varies depending on the variety and season.