Gyűjteményes generációk közötti bazsarózsák - Paeonia 'Scarlet Heaven' (Itoh csoport)

Paeonia 'Scarlet Heaven', an Itoh group peony (hybrid), is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Paeoniaceae family, renowned for its simple, deep scarlet red flowers and its sturdiness. Created by Don Hollingsworth in 1999, this variety combines the traits of shrub and herbaceous peonies, offering spectacular flowers, strong stems, and decorative foliage. It is ideal for ornamental gardens, borders, containers, or as a cut flower, thanks to its vibrant color and abundant blooming.

Appearance of leaves, flowers, and fruits

• Leaves: The leaves are compound, divided into elliptical or lance-shaped leaflets, dark green and glossy. In spring, the new foliage has reddish shades, turning to deep green. In autumn, the leaves may take on coppery 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 pure, intense scarlet red with a velvety texture. The flower’s center 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 firm stems do not require support, holding the large flowers well.
• Fruits: It produces small green capsules that dry in autumn, containing seeds. These have no ornamental value and are rarely used for propagation due to the 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 growth, with short, partly woody stems arising from ground level. It inherits the vigor of shrub peonies and the herbaceous character of garden peonies.
• Type: Herbaceous perennial, with stems dying back to the ground in winter, but roots surviving and regenerating in spring.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day) for maximum blooming but tolerates partial shade, where flowers may be fewer. Avoid dense shade, which reduces vigor.
• Soil: Grows in fertile, moist, well-drained soils with 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 wet. 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 roots in very cold areas for protection.

Care and resistance

• Resistance: Very resistant to diseases and pests, 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 needed.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring at shoot emergence and once after flowering. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes leaves at the expense of flowers.
• Pruning: Cut stems to the ground in autumn after foliage dries. Remove faded flowers to maintain a tidy appearance. Does not require frequent division and can remain undisturbed for years.
• Propagation: Propagated by dividing roots in autumn, but the process is slow due to the hybrid nature. Seeds are not viable.
• Warning: All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.

'Scarlet Heaven' peony is ideal for ornamental gardens, borders, containers, or as a cut flower. Its scarlet red flowers add a vibrant focal point, pairing well with contrasting plants such as lavender, sage, or white ornamental herbs. Decorative foliage and autumn coloring enhance its appeal. Suitable for cottage gardens, modern landscapes, or as an accent plant. Attracts bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Created by Don Hollingsworth in 1999, the 'Scarlet Heaven' peony is an Itoh hybrid, resulting from crossing an herbaceous peony with a shrub peony. Registered for its pure red color and vigor, it is one of the most valued Itoh varieties, widely grown in Europe and North America.

Blooming season: May - June

Pot size: 21 cm
Height including pot: varies depending on season

After flowering, the leaves dry out - this is considered normal.