Itoh Peony
Dr. Toichi Itoh was a prominent Japanese physicist best known for his work in the field of condensed matter physics. His work has had a lasting impact on both theoretical and applied physics.
In 1948 Dr. Itoh also successfully created 7 peonies by hybridizing herbaceous and tree peonies to combine the hardiness and habit of herbaceous peonies with the color range, flower size and extended flowering period of tree peonies. Dr. Itoh passed away before ever seeing his creations bloom. Years later, American horticulturist, Louis Smirnow bought some of the original Itoh peonies from Dr. Itoh’s widow and continued Itoh’s work. These peonies are named Itoh peonies after Dr. Itoh.
Herbaceous peonies do not thrive in San Francisco, but Itoh peonies perform quite well. It can take several years for them to become well enough established to produce an abundance of blooms. This one lives in a large pot in our garden and is just beginning its blooming season.
Thanks for stopping by!
© Melissa Post 2025
Itoh Peony
Dr. Toichi Itoh was a prominent Japanese physicist best known for his work in the field of condensed matter physics. His work has had a lasting impact on both theoretical and applied physics.
In 1948 Dr. Itoh also successfully created 7 peonies by hybridizing herbaceous and tree peonies to combine the hardiness and habit of herbaceous peonies with the color range, flower size and extended flowering period of tree peonies. Dr. Itoh passed away before ever seeing his creations bloom. Years later, American horticulturist, Louis Smirnow bought some of the original Itoh peonies from Dr. Itoh’s widow and continued Itoh’s work. These peonies are named Itoh peonies after Dr. Itoh.
Herbaceous peonies do not thrive in San Francisco, but Itoh peonies perform quite well. It can take several years for them to become well enough established to produce an abundance of blooms. This one lives in a large pot in our garden and is just beginning its blooming season.
Thanks for stopping by!
© Melissa Post 2025