Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

7 other cultivars

perennial

Hillary Itoh Peony

Paeonia x hybrida 'Hillary Itoh'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hillary Itoh peony offers large, beautiful yellow flowers with a unique structure, having a blend of herbaceous and tree peony characteristics.

Notable for its exceptional flower color and the ability to thrive in a variety of garden settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia x hybrida Hillary Itoh offers large, fragrant blooms that add elegance and a sweet scent to gardens, ideal for focal points and borders.

Its robust nature makes it a reliable perennial that can thrive with minimal care, providing long-lasting beauty year after year.

Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Over 50 years

Native To

Cultivated hybrid

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck well-drained, organic-rich soil around roots for stability.
Plant in full sun or partial shade for optimal blooms.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune after flowering to shape and promote new growth.

Pro Tip

Plant peony tubers with the 'eye' no more than 1-2 inches below soil surface for best flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
Apply mulch to protect roots from extreme temperatures
Prune after blooming to encourage healthy growth
Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Support tall stems with stakes if necessary

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not plant too deep; burying eyes too deep reduces flowering
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak new growth
Do not disturb tubers during dormancy
Avoid using fresh manure directly around roots

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant perennial border centerpieceFragrant flower bed accentShaded woodland garden feature

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Lupines Columbines Bleeding Heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hillary Itoh Peony questions

What zones can Hillary Itoh Peony grow in?

Hillary Itoh Peony is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hillary Itoh Peony deer resistant?

Yes — Hillary Itoh Peony is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Hillary Itoh Peony bloom?

Hillary Itoh Peony typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hillary Itoh Peony need full sun?

Hillary Itoh Peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.