Paeonia 'Pink Ardour' Itoh Peony

Paeonia 'Pink Ardour' is a petite Itoh peony that reaches a mature height of 18 to 24 inches with a slightly wider spread. A prolific late spring to early summer bloomer, 'Pink Ardour' showcases large, semi-double flowers with radiant raspberry-pink petals and a center filled with golden stamens. These soft-scented blossoms appear on sturdy stems, making them perfect for cutting, while the dark green foliage provides a refined texture all summer, transitioning to hues of purple or gold in autumn.

As an Itoh peony, 'Pink Ardour' is a hybrid combining the robust qualities of tree peonies with the free-flowering nature of herbaceous varieties. Its compact, bushy form fits beautifully into mixed beds and borders, serving as a striking specimen or elegant low hedge. Exceptionally cold-hardy (Zones 2-8) and long-lived, this peony will enhance your garden for generations when given proper care and placement.

Low maintenance and adaptable, 'Pink Ardour' thrives in sunny to partially shaded spots sheltered from strong winds. It prefers humus-rich, well-draining soil but tolerates average garden soil. Keep it hydrated during active growth and add mulch to maintain soil moisture and temperature. Cut the foliage back to the ground in late fall after it fades. Deer and rabbit resistance ensures this peony's beauty remains undisturbed.

Plant 'Pink Ardour' Itoh roots in spring, 1 to 2 inches deep, and space them 36 to 48 inches apart for multiple plantings. This peony is well-suited for cold climates, requiring a prolonged winter chill to ensure vigorous growth.