Paeonia 'Cora Louise'

Itoh peony

Few plants are hotter than the incredible intersectional peonies—hybrids between herbaceous and tree peonies. The first that hit the market, 'Bartzella', has proven to be such a phenomenal plant that no well-appointed garden is fully dressed without at least one to show off.

The intersectional peonies are also known as Itoh peonies in recognition of Toichi Itoh the first person to cross the herbaceous and tree peonies opening the door for more of these great garden plants. The Itoh hybrids make exceptionally tough garden specimens with stiff stems, huge flowers, and few garden pests. Most grow to about 30" tall and wide and can have upwards of 50 flowers on a single plant.

'Cora Louise' has large, semi-double white flowers with contrasting deep purple flares. Unlike many of the intersectional peonies, 'Cora Louise' has a quite pleasant, if not overwhelming, fragrance and is among the heaviest bloomers in the group. In full sun, expect a lush, beautiful foliaged plant with a reliable spring flower show.

Itoh peonies are slow to produce and most purchased plants are typically rather small and expensive.