Paeonia 'Hillary' Itoh Peony

Paeonia 'Hillary' is a compact Itoh peony that reaches 24 to 30 inches tall with a slightly wider spread. A standout spring-to-summer bloomer, it produces stunning semi-double to double flowers that exhibit a unique color gradation—vivid pink centers glowing as outer petals gently fade to cream, creating an elegant two-tone effect. Lightly fragrant, these massive blooms are supported by sturdy stems, making them ideal for cut flower arrangements. The dark green foliage remains vibrant throughout summer, transitioning to rich purple or gold hues in autumn.

An Itoh peony, or intersectional peony, 'Hillary' is a hybrid that combines the best traits of tree and herbaceous peonies. This cold-hardy perennial (Zones 2-8) is versatile enough for mixed beds, borders, and even containers. Its compact, bushy form makes it an excellent focal point or group planting for a charming hedge or backdrop for spring bulbs. With proper care, 'Hillary' can thrive for over a century, adding timeless beauty to your garden.

Resilient and low maintenance, 'Hillary' peony flourishes in sunny to partially shaded locations with humus-rich, medium moist, and well-draining soil. Protect from strong winds, water regularly, and apply mulch to retain moisture. Prune the foliage back to the ground in late fall for a fresh start in spring. Naturally resistant to deer and rabbits, this peony is a reliable garden choice.

Plant 'Hillary' roots in spring at a depth of 1 to 2 inches, spacing 36 to 48 inches apart for group plantings. This cold-hardy perennial requires extended winter chill to thrive, making it ideal for northern gardens.