Paeonia, 'Oriental Gold' intersectional 'Itoh' peony

Notable characteristics: Golden yellow semi-double blossoms with strawberry red flares at the base of the petals. Petals are somewhat frilled on the edges. Vigorous grower with a upright and spreading habit.

This rare peony was one of the first intersectional hybrids produced in Japan and subsequently imported into the United States in the early 1970s. Though its origins are somewhat murky, this cultivar preforms well in the garden.

Hybridizer, year introduced: Hybridized by either Tochi Ito or Yugen Higuchi, in the late 1940s or 1950s in Japan. Introduced to the United States by Louis Smirnow of Long Island, NY in the early 1970s.  

Growth habit and size at maturity (10 years old): Low growing with dense foliage. Grows to 3' tall and 4' wide.

Flower form and size: Semi-double, 7-9".

Flower fragrance: Light and lemony.

Bloom time: Late season intersectional peony, blooms in our USDA zone 6a garden in the first or second week of June.

Zone hardiness: Proven in USDA zones 4-9.

Plant size: 4-5 'eyes' or buds with proportional roots. This size plant will most likely flower in its first or second spring in the ground.

When we ship: Available for Fall 2023