Description
Paeonia × ‘Belle Toulousaine’ is an Itoh peony, a unique hybrid resulting from a cross between herbaceous peonies and tree peonies, combining the best traits of both. This cultivar is celebrated for its large, semi-double, coppery-orange to apricot blossoms that emit a pleasing fragrance, typically blooming in late spring to early summer. The plant features lush, dark green, glossy foliage that provides an attractive backdrop even when not in bloom, and it typically grows to about 2 to 3 feet tall, making it suitable for borders and mixed perennial gardens. Developed originally in Japan and further hybridized and popularized by American breeders such as Dr. Toichi Itoh in the mid-20th century, Itoh peonies like ‘Belle Toulousaine’ offer greater disease resistance and sturdier stems than traditional herbaceous peonies. This cultivar has garnered attention for its exceptional bloom form and color, earning accolades from various horticultural societies for garden performance and landscape value. Robust and long-lived, ‘Belle Toulousaine’ thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and is prized for its ability to bring vibrant, warm tones and extended blooming presence to perennial collections.