Cricket Hill Garden
Paeonia, 'First Arrival' intersectional 'Itoh' peony PICK UP
Notable characteristics: Blossoms open pink and will lighten gracefully as the flower ages. Center of flower has remarkable color contrasts. Petals are slightly ruffled and look as if they are made of silk. Excellent grower with beautiful foliage. Intersectional or Itoh hybrid peonies are crosses between tree and herbaceous peonies. All peonies are considered deer resistant.
Hybridizer, year introduced: Roger Anderson, 1986.
Growth habit and size at maturity: Symmetrical, flowers held well above the foliage. Grows to 30" tall and 36" wide.
Flower form and size: Semi-double, 6-7" on strong stems.
Flower fragrance: Light and sweet.
Bloom time: This intersectional peony is always the first one to open in this group of peonies, hence its name. Blooms in our USDA zone 6a garden at the end of May or first week June, depending on the warmth of the season.
Zone hardiness: Proven in USDA zones 4-9.
Plant size: Potted plants available at the nursery this spring.
Available as a potted plant at the nursery