Intersectional peonies, also known as Itoh peonies, are indeed considered to be relatively expensive compared to other peony varieties. This can be attributed to several factors, including their unique characteristics, limited availability, and the time and effort required for their cultivation and propagation.
One of the primary reasons why intersectional peonies are costly is their exceptional qualities. Itoh peonies are a cross between herbaceous and tree peonies, combining the best characteristics of both types. They typically produce large, showy flowers in a wide range of vibrant colors, with strong stems that don’t require staking. The flowers also have a delightful fragrance and a longer bloom period compared to other peonies. These outstanding features make intersectional peonies highly sought after by gardeners and collectors, driving up their price.
Furthermore, the limited availability of intersectional peonies contributes to their high cost. When these peonies were first introduced to the nursery trade and made available to the public, there were only a handful of plants in existence. As a result, the supply was extremely limited, and the demand for these unique peonies was high. This scarcity in the market led to increased prices as nurseries and growers sought to meet the demand with the limited supply.
Additionally, the cultivation and propagation of intersectional peonies require significant time and effort, further adding to their high price tag. These peonies cannot be easily grown from seed like herbaceous peonies, as the desired traits may not be reliably inherited. Instead, they are propagated through division, which involves separating a mature plant into multiple sections, each capable of growing into a new plant. However, it takes several years for these plants to reach maturity and produce divisions that can be sold. This extended time frame, coupled with the need for experienced growers to carefully handle and divide the plants, increases the cost involved in producing intersectional peonies.
Moreover, the process of developing new and unique intersectional peony varieties requires substantial investment in research, breeding, and selection. Breeders spend years crossing different peony species and carefully selecting the best offspring with desired traits. This intensive breeding program, combined with the lengthy evaluation period required to assess the new varieties, adds to the overall cost of producing intersectional peonies.
The high cost of intersectional peonies can be attributed to their exceptional qualities, limited availability, and the time and effort involved in their cultivation and propagation. Their unique characteristics, scarcity in the market, and the investment in breeding and selection contribute to their relatively high price tag. However, for avid gardeners and peony enthusiasts, the beauty and allure of these exquisite flowers make them a worthwhile investment.
