Overview ‘Bartzella’ is an award-winning Itoh (intersectional) peony — a cross between herbaceous (Paeonia lactiflora) and tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa). It’s beloved for its huge, semi-double to double golden-yellow blooms, often featuring a blush of red at the center, and a light citrusy fragrance. With strong, upright stems and a long bloom time, ‘Bartzella’ brings the best of both peony worlds: vigor, floriferousness, and resilience. Key Characteristics Botanical Name: Paeonia Itoh hybrid ‘Bartzella’ Common Name: Bartzella Peony Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial Peony Type: Itoh (intersectional) Hardiness Zones: 3–8 Height: 30–36 inches (75–90 cm) Spread: 30–36 inches (75–90 cm) Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer (typically mid-June in Zone 3) Flower Color: Golden yellow with red flares near the center Fragrance: Light, citrusy Foliage: Attractive, finely cut, dark green foliage that stays lush into fall Sun Requirements Prefers full sun (6+ hours daily) Tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates, but blooms best in full sun Soil Needs Prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil Add compost or aged manure to improve soil health Avoid soggy sites — Itoh peonies do not like wet roots pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5–7.5) Watering Needs Moderate water during the growing season Keep soil consistently moist while buds develop and bloom Water at the base to prevent fungal issues Once established, drought-tolerant compared to other peonies Planting & Spacing Best planted in early fall (September in Zone 3) or early spring from potted plants Plant crown just 1–2 inches below the soil surface Planting too deep may delay or prevent flowering Space 3 feet apart to allow for full maturity and good air circulation Maintenance Deadhead spent blooms to tidy the plant Do NOT divide often – Bartzella can stay in place for decades Cut back foliage to the ground in late fall after frost In Zone 3, apply mulch after the ground freezes to protect from winter temperature swings Fertilizing Fertilize in spring with a balanced (10-10-10) fertilizer or peony-specific mix Top dress with compost annually Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce flowering and cause floppy growth Pests & Diseases Very resistant to most diseases, especially Botrytis (a common issue in herbaceous peonies) May occasionally attract: Aphids Thrips Keep area clean of fallen debris in fall to reduce disease risk Wildlife & Companion Benefits Pollinator-friendly – bees love its large blooms Deer and rabbit resistant Great companions: Iris Salvia Allium Catmint Ornamental grasses Garden Uses Specimen plant Mid-border anchor Cottage and perennial gardens Cut flower gardens (excellent vase life) Legacy plantings – Itoh peonies live 50+ years! Special Notes Award-winning: American Peony Society Gold Medal winner Multiple blooms per stem and longer flowering period than traditional peonies Strong stems mean no staking required Foliage stays attractive through fall — adds season-long structure
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