Bujori intergenerici de colectie - Paeonia 'First Arrival' (Itoh Group)

Paeonia 'First Arrival', an Itoh group peony (intersectional hybrid), is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Paeoniaceae family, renowned for its semi-double flowers of vibrant lavender-pink and its early blooming. Created by Roger F. Anderson in 1986, this variety combines the traits 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 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, new foliage appears reddish-purple, gradually turning deep green. In autumn, the leaves may take on coppery 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, made up of broad petals of intense lavender-pink, with paler tones towards the edges. The flower’s center features golden yellow stamens and subtle purple spots (flares), creating an elegant contrast. The color gently fades to creamy-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 firm stems do not require support.
• 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 60-80 cm in height and 60-90 cm in width, forming a compact, rounded bush with sturdy stems.
• Vigor: Moderately fast growth, with short, partly woody stems arising from ground level. Inherits the vigor of shrub peonies and the herbaceous character of garden peonies.
• Type: Herbaceous perennial, with stems that die back to the ground in winter, but roots survive and regenerate 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: Robust, with excellent resistance to diseases and pests. Tolerates wind and rain due to firm stems. Rarely affected by mildew or aphids; inspect occasionally 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 neat 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.

Paeonia 'First Arrival' is ideal for ornamental gardens, borders, containers, or as a cut flower. Its lavender-pink flowers add a delicate focal point, blending well with contrasting plants such as sage, lavender, or white ornamental grasses. 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 Roger F. Anderson in 1986, 'First Arrival' Peony is an Itoh hybrid, resulting from crossing an herbaceous peony with a shrub peony. Valued for early blooming and lavender-pink color, it is one of the most popular Itoh varieties, widely grown in Europe and North America.

Blooming season: May - June

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

Note: growth rate varies depending on variety and season.