Paeonia 'Hillary' is a compact Itoh peony perfect for small gardens and containers, growing 24 to 30 inches tall. This prolific spring-to-midsummer bloomer produces large, semi-double to double flowers with a captivating color gradation soft pink centers glowing brightly as outer petals fade to creamy white for a two-tone effect. Lightly fragrant, the blossoms sit atop strong stems, making them ideal for bouquets. The finely textured, dark green foliage remains lush all season, transforming to warm autumn tones of purple or gold.
'Hillary' is an Itoh, or intersectional, peony, a rare hybrid between tree and herbaceous peonies, offering the best of both worlds. Cold hardy to Zones 2-8, this bushy perennial shines as a focal point or mass planting in beds, borders, or containers. With proper care, it can thrive for decades, making it a valuable addition to your garden.
Low maintenance and adaptable, 'Hillary' peony grows well in sunny to partly shaded spots with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Protect from strong winds and mulch the base to retain moisture. In late fall, cut back foliage to prepare for winter. Naturally deer resistant and rabbit resistant, 'Hillary' is as resilient as it is beautiful.
Plant 'Hillary' Itoh roots in spring, burying them 1 to 2 inches deep and spacing them 36 to 48 inches apart for group plantings. Cold winters are essential for dormancy and bud development, making this peony perfect for northern climates.
