Cora Louise Itoh Peony

Cora Louise Itoh Peony (Paeonia 'Cora Louise')

Cora Louise Itoh Peony brings a refined, high-contrast bloom to the garden with the sturdy, reliable habit Itoh peonies are known for. It makes borders look curated and intentional, offering a lush plant body that stays attractive well beyond the bloom season. The flowers feel premium and unique, making this an easy pick when you want something that stands out without being flashy. If you want a peony that combines showy blooms with a strong, tidy plant shape, Cora Louise is a great choice.

Distinctive Features

This Itoh peony forms a sturdy mound of deep green, finely cut foliage and produces large blooms in late spring to early summer. Cora Louise is known for white flowers with a soft lavender to purple flare at the base of the petals, creating a dramatic center effect that reads beautifully up close. The blooms are typically semi-double and are held on strong stems, helping the plant stay upright through the season. After flowering, the foliage remains lush and clean, giving the plant long season value as a full, garden-ready presence.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part sun, with at least 6 hours of sun for best flowering.
• Soil: Rich, well-drained soil is ideal, with compost added to improve texture and drainage.
• Water: Water regularly during establishment, then provide consistent moisture during dry stretches, avoiding soggy soil.
• USDA Zones: 4 to 9.
• Planting Depth: Set the crown just below the soil surface and avoid burying too deeply for reliable bloom.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Plant where the bicolor blooms can be appreciated up close, such as near a patio, path, or entry garden.
• Perennial Borders: Use to add strong structure and a premium bloom season among spring and early summer companions.
• Cut Flowers: Grow near a cutting garden to bring the showy blooms indoors for arrangements.
• Foundation Planting: Place in front of evergreens or shrubs to create a layered look with long-lasting foliage value.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply during dry periods, especially in spring as buds form and after flowering as the plant stores energy.
• Feeding: Top-dress with compost in spring and avoid heavy nitrogen that can reduce bloom performance.
• Pruning: Cut stems back after frost, leaving the plant clean for winter and ready for fresh spring growth.
• Spacing: Provide room for airflow and mature width so the clump stays healthy and full.

Why Choose Cora Louise Itoh Peony?

• Bicolor Blooms: White petals with a purple center flare create a distinctive, premium look.
• Strong Stems: Upright habit helps the plant stay composed through the bloom season.
• Long Season Presence: Attractive foliage stays lush after flowering, keeping borders looking finished.
• High Design Value: Unique flower coloring elevates mixed borders and looks curated in the landscape.

Cora Louise Itoh Peony is an excellent choice for gardeners who want a peony that feels special and performs like a workhorse. Give it sun, well-drained soil, and a permanent spot where it can mature, and it will reward you with bigger bloom seasons and a fuller clump year after year. It is a premium perennial that quickly becomes a border highlight.