Bujori intergenerici de colectie - Paeonia 'Scarlet Heaven' (Itoh Group)

Paeonia 'Scarlet Heaven' , a peony from the Itoh group (hybrid), is a herbaceous perennial in the Paeoniaceae family, famous for its simple, deep scarlet red flowers, and for its hardiness. Created by Don Hollingsworth in 1999, 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 vibrant 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 has reddish hues, changing to deep green. In autumn, the leaves may take on copper tones, adding seasonal interest. The foliage is dense, disease-resistant and remains attractive throughout the season.
• Flowers : The flowers are simple, 12-15 cm in diameter, made up of broad petals, of a pure, intense scarlet red, with a velvety texture. The center of the flower features golden yellow stamens and subtle red spots (flares), creating a striking contrast. The flowers are lightly scented and appear in mid-season (May-June), with up to 30-40 flowers on a mature plant. The sturdy stems do not require support, supporting the large flowers well.
• 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 70-90 cm in height and 60-80 cm in width, 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 : Very disease and pest resistant, with excellent tolerance to mildew and aphids. Firm stems withstand wind and rain. Rarely affected, but inspect occasionally for insects 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.
• Warning : All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.

Peony 'Scarlet Heaven' is ideal for ornamental gardens, borders, containers or as a cut flower. Its scarlet red flowers add a vibrant focal point, combining well with contrasting plants such as lavender, sage or white ornamental grasses. The decorative foliage and autumn colouring add to 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 Don Hollingsworth in 1999, the Peony 'Scarlet Heaven' is an Itoh hybrid, resulting from the crossing of a herbaceous peony with a shrub peony. Noted for its pure red color and vigor, it is one of the most prized 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

After flowering, the leaves dry out - an appearance considered normal.