Peony Varieties: Tree, Herbaceous, Itoh, and Double Peonies Explained

Peonies are cherished around the world for their large, lush blooms and captivating fragrance. These elegant flowers, which come in a wide range of colors and forms, have made a lasting impression in gardens, often becoming centerpieces of spring displays. Known for their resilience and impressive longevity, peonies can thrive for decades, with some varieties known to live for over a century, making them not only beautiful but enduring choices for any garden.

Their appeal goes beyond just aesthetics. Peonies are relatively low-maintenance plants, requiring minimal care once established. This combination of beauty and ease of care has led to their popularity among gardeners, from beginners to experienced horticulturists. However, the diversity of peony types, each with unique characteristics, means that choosing the right peony for a garden can be both exciting and challenging. From towering tree peonies to the sturdy herbaceous types, each variety offers a different experience in terms of growth, bloom shape, and maintenance needs.

Understanding the different varieties of peonies is essential for any gardener looking to incorporate these stunning plants into their landscape. Each variety thrives best in specific conditions and brings unique visual elements to a garden. For enthusiasts who want a vibrant, long-lasting display, familiarizing themselves with the distinctions among tree, herbaceous, Itoh, and double peonies can ensure they select the perfect types to suit their gardening goals and environment. As we explore each variety in detail, we’ll uncover what makes peonies such beloved additions to gardens worldwide.

Tree Peonies

Tree peonies

Tree peonies are a unique and captivating variety within the peony family. Unlike herbaceous peonies, which die back to the ground each year, tree peonies are woody shrubs that retain their structure throughout the seasons. This gives them a sturdier presence in the garden, with woody stems that allow them to bloom year after year, even in colder climates. Their woody framework supports larger, often heavier blooms, which makes them a popular choice among gardeners looking for a show-stopping plant that combines elegance and resilience.

Characteristics and Growth Habit
Tree peonies are known for their upright, bushy growth habit and are generally slower to establish than their herbaceous counterparts. Once mature, these shrubs can reach impressive heights and widths, often growing between 3 to 7 feet tall and spreading about the same. Their blooms are large, often spanning up to 10 inches across, with petals that vary from delicate and semi-transparent to thick and ruffled, depending on the variety. These peonies are incredibly cold-hardy, able to withstand harsh winters without losing their structure, which is a defining feature that sets them apart.

Popular Varieties
Tree peonies come in many stunning varieties, each offering its own unique color, bloom form, and growth characteristics. Some popular types include:

  • Rockii Peonies: Known for their striking dark blotches at the base of the petals, Rockii peonies are a Chinese variety that produces large, lightly fragrant blooms in shades of white, lavender, and pink. They are particularly beloved for their delicate appearance and soft colors.
  • Japanese Tree Peonies: These tree peonies are known for their vibrant, showy blooms, often in rich shades of red, pink, purple, and white. Japanese tree peonies are highly regarded for their intricate petal arrangements and captivating fragrances, making them stand out in any garden setting.

Ideal Growing Conditions
Tree peonies thrive best in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter. They prefer a sunny location with morning sunlight and afternoon shade, which helps protect their delicate blooms from harsh midday heat. While tree peonies are generally low-maintenance once established, they do benefit from a sheltered location to protect their blooms from strong winds.

For planting, loosen the soil to encourage good drainage and add compost to enrich the soil. After planting, water the tree peony deeply and regularly during its first few years to help it establish a strong root system. Once mature, these shrubs become more drought-tolerant, requiring only occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Pruning is minimal, as tree peonies naturally develop an attractive shape; however, removing spent blooms and any deadwood in early spring can help maintain their health and appearance.

Herbaceous Peonies

Herbaceous Peonies

Herbaceous peonies are the classic garden peonies that many people picture when they think of these stunning plants. Known for their soft, flexible stems and lush blooms, herbaceous peonies are highly popular in gardens and landscapes due to their wide variety of colors, forms, and fragrances. Each year, these plants die back to the ground in the fall and reemerge in spring, marking the arrival of warmer weather with their leafy growth and vibrant, showy blooms.

Characteristics and Growth Habit
Herbaceous peonies are characterized by their non-woody, green stems that grow anew each spring. The soft, herbaceous nature of these stems means that they don’t support the blooms as sturdily as tree peonies do, so they often benefit from staking or support to prevent the flowers from drooping. Herbaceous peonies typically reach heights of 2 to 3 feet and spread about the same, forming a dense, leafy mound when fully grown. Their foliage is lush and dark green, providing a lovely backdrop to the blooms and lasting through the summer until the fall dieback.

Popular Varieties
Herbaceous peonies come in an array of beautiful varieties, many of which have been beloved by gardeners for generations. Some popular types include:

  • Sarah Bernhardt: This classic peony variety is famous for its large, double blooms in a soft pink color with a light, sweet fragrance. Named after the famous actress, Sarah Bernhardt peonies are a favorite for their romantic appearance and are widely used in bouquets and garden displays.
  • Festiva Maxima: Known for its pure white, semi-double blooms with distinctive crimson flecks on some of the inner petals, Festiva Maxima peonies add a touch of elegance to any garden. This variety also has a lovely fragrance and is highly regarded for its striking contrast of colors.

Ideal Growing Conditions
Herbaceous peonies thrive in well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. These plants prefer full sun, ideally receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, which encourages optimal blooming. In areas with particularly hot summers, a bit of afternoon shade can help protect the flowers from fading or wilting prematurely.

When planting herbaceous peonies, it’s essential to plant them shallowly, with the buds or “eyes” only 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface. Planting too deeply can result in fewer blooms, so this is a key detail to keep in mind. Water the plants deeply during dry periods, especially while they are establishing; however, avoid overwatering, as they do not thrive in soggy soil.

A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring, as new growth begins, can provide the nutrients herbaceous peonies need to produce lush foliage and blooms. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more vibrant blooms the following year, and cutting the stems down to ground level after the first frost will help prepare the plant for winter dormancy.

With minimal maintenance, herbaceous peonies can reward gardeners year after year with their dazzling blooms, rich colors, and signature fragrance, making them a garden favorite that only grows more beautiful with time.

Itoh Peonies (Intersectional Peonies)

Itoh Peonies

Itoh peonies, also known as intersectional peonies, are a remarkable hybrid variety that combines the best qualities of both tree and herbaceous peonies. Named after Toichi Itoh, the Japanese horticulturist who pioneered their development, these peonies boast sturdy, semi-woody stems and lush, vibrant blooms. By blending the characteristics of both parent types, Itoh peonies offer gardeners a beautiful, hardy, and longer-blooming option that stands out in any garden.

Characteristics and Growth Habit
Itoh peonies inherit the woody, supportive stems of tree peonies, which helps their flowers stay upright without the need for staking. At the same time, like herbaceous peonies, they die back to the ground each winter, returning each spring with new growth. This hybrid nature provides Itoh peonies with resilience and longevity while allowing them to flourish in a range of climates. They typically reach heights of 2 to 3 feet and spread out to form a rounded mound, creating a stunning garden display.

One of the standout features of Itoh peonies is their longer blooming period. While traditional peonies may bloom for only a couple of weeks, Itoh varieties often have a succession of blooms, with secondary buds opening after the main flowers have faded. Their blooms are large and can reach up to 8 inches across, with colors that range from soft pastels to vivid yellows, pinks, and reds. The petals are often thick and ruffled, giving the blooms a striking, layered appearance.

Popular Varieties
Itoh peonies have gained popularity for their beauty and resilience, and certain varieties are especially cherished by gardeners:

  • Bartzella: This variety is famous for its bright yellow, semi-double blooms with a soft fragrance. Bartzella is particularly eye-catching and is one of the most popular Itoh peonies due to its sunny color and prolific flowering habit, often producing dozens of blooms per plant each season.
  • Garden Treasure: Known for its stunning blend of yellow petals with hints of coral, Garden Treasure adds a unique color to garden beds and borders. This variety is highly sought after for its subtle fragrance and long-lasting blooms, making it a standout addition to any landscape.

Ideal Growing Conditions
Itoh peonies are known for being low-maintenance once established, but they still thrive best in specific conditions. They prefer well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter, and they do well in slightly acidic to neutral pH. Like other peony types, they benefit from a location with full sunlight, though they can tolerate some afternoon shade in particularly warm climates.

To encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms, Itoh peonies should be watered deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. Their established roots make them fairly drought-tolerant, but consistent moisture helps support their vibrant blooms. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth appears, and again in midsummer to support their blooming cycle. In late fall, trim the stems back to ground level to prepare the plant for winter dormancy, as you would with herbaceous peonies.

Itoh peonies are also resistant to common peony diseases and pests, making them a reliable choice for gardeners seeking beauty without extensive maintenance. With their rich colors, strong stems, and extended bloom period, Itoh peonies bring lasting elegance and color to gardens, bridging the qualities of tree and herbaceous peonies in a way that’s both practical and enchanting.

Double Peonies

Double peonies are renowned for their lush, densely layered blooms that are both dramatic and eye-catching. With layers of petals arranged in multiple rows, these flowers create a “full” effect, giving them a luxurious appearance that often resembles roses or even ruffled pom-poms. Double peonies are favored by gardeners and floral designers alike for their impressive structure and the sheer volume of petals, making them a stunning choice in flower beds, borders, and bouquets.

Characteristics and Appearance
The defining feature of double peonies is their intricate bloom structure. Rather than a single row of petals, double peonies have multiple layers, forming a full, rounded blossom that can reach up to 10 inches across, depending on the variety. These blooms are densely packed, often filling in to form a nearly spherical shape when fully opened. Double peonies come in a range of colors, from soft pinks, whites, and yellows to deep reds and vibrant corals, adding versatility to garden designs.

The blossoms of double peonies also tend to be heavy due to their layered petals, which can give them a luxurious look but can sometimes cause the stems to droop, particularly after rain or in windy conditions. This is especially common in varieties with particularly large, dense blooms.

Popular Varieties Across Types
Double peonies are found across all types of peonies—tree, herbaceous, and Itoh—each offering its own take on this beautiful form. Here are some standout varieties in each category:

  • Tree Peonies: Kamada-Nishiki is a popular double-flowered tree peony with large, soft pink blooms that have a subtle fragrance. Another favorite, Shimadaijin, features deep purple-red double blooms that bring a rich, regal color to gardens.
  • Herbaceous Peonies: Sarah Bernhardt is a beloved double herbaceous peony with pale pink, fragrant blooms that are ideal for cut flowers. Festiva Maxima, another classic, is known for its pure white double blooms accented with crimson flecks, making it a timeless choice for both gardens and floral arrangements.
  • Itoh Peonies: Bartzella, a bright yellow Itoh peony, produces semi-double to double blooms with a mild fragrance and ruffled petal layers. This hybrid form bridges the structure of tree peonies with the dense blooms of herbaceous types, making it a favorite for garden borders.

Growing Tips for Double Peonies
Double peonies require the right care to encourage strong, healthy growth and to prevent common issues associated with their heavy blooms, such as drooping.

  1. Support Heavy Blooms: Because of the weight of double peony blooms, providing support is often beneficial. Use stakes or peony rings to support the stems, especially in herbaceous varieties, which are prone to drooping. This keeps the flowers upright and prevents the stems from bending or breaking.
  2. Choose the Right Location: Plant double peonies in a sunny spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Full sun encourages strong growth and abundant flowering, while a bit of afternoon shade can protect the blooms from fading in very hot climates.
  3. Water Consistently: Peonies thrive in soil that is consistently moist but well-drained. Water deeply, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering, as they are sensitive to soggy conditions.
  4. Enrich the Soil: Peonies perform best in nutrient-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Add compost or well-rotted manure when planting and fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer each spring to support bloom development.
  5. Deadhead and Trim Properly: After blooming, deadhead spent flowers to direct the plant’s energy toward root and foliage health. In fall, cut back herbaceous and Itoh peonies to the ground level to prepare them for winter, while tree peonies only require the removal of dead or damaged wood.

Double peonies, with their voluminous and ornate blooms, bring a touch of opulence to any garden setting. With the right care and placement, these peonies will reward gardeners with lush, full flowers each season, creating an enduring display that’s as captivating as it is timeless.

Choosing the Right Peony Variety for Your Garden

When it comes to choosing the right peony variety for your garden, there are several important factors to consider. Peonies offer an array of stunning options, but selecting the best fit for your climate, space, and maintenance preferences will ensure they thrive in your specific garden environment. Additionally, thoughtful companion planting can help enhance their beauty and support their growth.

Factors to Consider

  1. Climate: Peonies are generally hardy plants, but different types may thrive better in specific climates. Tree peonies are known for their resilience in colder regions, with woody stems that help them withstand winter temperatures. Herbaceous peonies also tolerate cold well, but they may benefit from some mulching in areas with severe winters. Itoh peonies are a versatile option for moderate climates, offering the cold hardiness of herbaceous types with the bloom longevity of tree peonies. Check your hardiness zone to ensure the variety you choose will perform well in your area.
  2. Garden Space: Consider the mature size of each peony type when planning your garden layout. Tree peonies, for instance, can grow larger and spread more than herbaceous or Itoh varieties, making them well-suited for the back of garden borders or as focal points. Herbaceous peonies, with their bushy, mounded growth, fit well in smaller spaces and mixed flower beds. Itoh peonies, which offer a compact growth habit, are a great choice for smaller garden plots or even container planting.
  3. Maintenance Requirements: Each peony type has slightly different maintenance needs. Herbaceous peonies benefit from trimming back to the ground each fall, while tree peonies require only occasional pruning to remove dead wood. Itoh peonies are relatively low-maintenance, needing only seasonal cleanup and light fertilization. If you prefer a low-maintenance approach, Itoh or tree peonies might be the ideal choice for your garden.

Suggestions for Companion Planting
Peonies are versatile plants that pair well with a range of companions. For a well-rounded garden bed, consider pairing peonies with plants that bloom before or after them to create a continuous display of color throughout the seasons.

  • Early Spring Bulbs: Planting tulips, daffodils, or hyacinths alongside peonies brings color early in the season, brightening up the garden before peonies bloom. These bulbs typically die back just as peonies come into flower, allowing each to shine in turn.
  • Mid-Summer Perennials: Pairing peonies with mid-summer bloomers, such as lilies, phlox, or coneflowers, extends the visual appeal of the garden as the season progresses. These later-blooming plants will provide color and interest after peonies have finished flowering.
  • Foliage Plants: Hostas, ferns, and ornamental grasses make excellent companions, especially for herbaceous and Itoh peonies. These foliage plants add texture and fill out the garden bed, complementing the dense peony blooms without competing for attention.

Read more: The Guide to Growing and Caring for Peonies

Conclusion

Peonies are beloved for their beauty, resilience, and diversity, and each type offers unique qualities that can enhance any garden. From the robust, woody tree peonies to the soft-stemmed, herbaceous varieties and the striking Itoh hybrids, the choices are as varied as they are breathtaking. By understanding the specific characteristics and growing needs of each type, you can select the perfect peony for your garden’s climate, space, and style.

Exploring the different varieties of peonies allows gardeners to enjoy an extended blooming season filled with vibrant colors, lush textures, and captivating fragrances. With proper planning, peonies can be a cherished, long-lasting addition to your garden, bringing joy year after year. So dive in, experiment with combinations, and create a peony display that reflects your personal taste and the timeless elegance of this remarkable plant family.

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