The 'Scarlet Heaven' Itoh Peony is a striking intersectional hybrid, combining the best traits of herbaceous and tree peonies. Developed by Roger Anderson in 1999, this cultivar is celebrated for its vibrant blooms and robust growth habit.

🌺 Key Features

• Bloom Appearance: Produces large, single-form flowers measuring 7–9 inches in diameter. The petals are a rich, deep scarlet-red, contrasted by bright golden-yellow anthers, creating a vivid display .

• Fragrance: Lightly fragrant, adding a subtle scent to its visual appeal .

• Bloom Time: Blooms in late spring to early summer, with a prolonged flowering period lasting up to six weeks once established .

• Growth Habit: Forms a dense, rounded mound reaching 28–30 inches in height and spreading 28–36 inches wide. The sturdy stems support the large blooms without the need for staking .

• Foliage: Features dark green, deeply lobed leaves reminiscent of its tree peony parentage. The foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season 

🌿 Growing Requirements

• Hardiness Zones: Thrives in USDA Zones 4–8 .

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.

• Soil: Requires well-drained, fertile soil. Avoid planting in areas with poor drainage to prevent root rot.

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering.

• Planting Depth: When planting bare roots, ensure the eyes (buds) are no more than 2 inches below the soil surface .

• Maintenance: Minimal. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage further flowering. In fall, cut back the foliage to ground level after it has died back naturally.

🐾 Additional Benefits

• Wildlife: Attracts butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity .

• Pest Resistance: Resistant to deer and rabbits, making it a low-maintenance choice for many gardeners.

• Longevity: Once established, 'Scarlet Heaven' can produce over 50 blooms per season and thrive for decades without the need for division .

In summary, the 'Scarlet Heaven' Itoh Peony is a robust and visually stunning addition to any garden, offering prolonged blooms, minimal maintenance, and resistance to common pests.