Scrumdidleuptious Itoh Peony

Overview

The ‘Scrumdidleuptious’ Peony (Paeonia lactiflora ‘Scrumdidleuptious’) is a herbaceous peony known for its lush bomb-type blooms featuring creamy white to blush outer guard petals with a full, frothy center of rich strawberry-pink to rose-pink. It's a romantic showstopper that blooms in late spring to early summer, making it ideal for both garden display and cutting. Despite its playful name, this peony is no joke in the garden — it’s hardy, easy to grow, and truly stunning.

Key Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Paeonia lactiflora ‘Scrumdidleuptious’

• Common Name: Scrumdidleuptious Peony

• Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial

• Peony Type: Bomb-type double peony

• Hardiness Zones: 3–8

• Height: 32–36 inches (80–90 cm)

• Spread: 24–36 inches (60–90 cm)

• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer (typically mid-June in Zone 3)

• Flower Color: Blush or creamy outer petals with a dense strawberry-pink center

• Fragrance: Light to moderate, sweetly floral

• Foliage: Deep green, lush and healthy throughout the season

Sun Requirements

• Performs best in full sun (6+ hours per day)

• Can tolerate light shade, especially in very hot areas, but with fewer blooms

Soil Needs

• Prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil

• Amend with compost or aged manure before planting

• Avoid overly wet, heavy soils

• pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5–7.5)

Watering Needs

• Keep soil evenly moist during active growth and blooming

• Reduce watering after blooming ends

• Water at the base to prevent fungal issues

Planting & Spacing

• Best planted in fall (September for Zone 3), or early spring from containers

• Plant eyes (buds) 1–2 inches below soil surface

  • Planting too deep will prevent flowering

• Space plants 3 feet apart to allow for good airflow and mature spread

Maintenance

• Deadhead after flowering for appearance and to direct energy to the roots

• Leave foliage until it yellows naturally in fall — it nourishes the roots

• Cut back to ground level after a hard frost

• Mulch in late fall to protect in Zone 3 — remove in spring as growth begins

Fertilizing

• Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring as shoots appear

• Optional: side-dress with compost or bone meal

• Avoid high-nitrogen feeds — they promote foliage at the expense of flowers

Pests & Diseases

• Low maintenance and resistant to most problems

• May experience:

  • Botrytis blight in wet, humid conditions — avoid overhead watering and clean up fall debris

  • Aphids or thrips on new growth

• Excellent air circulation and good drainage reduce issues

Wildlife & Companion Benefits

• Pollinator-friendly — attracts bees

• Ants are often seen on buds — they’re just enjoying the nectar and don’t harm the plant

• Deer and rabbit resistant

• Great companions:

  • Delphinium

  • Catmint

  • Baptisia

  • Iris

  • Ornamental grasses

Garden Uses

• Cottage and perennial gardens

• Mixed borders

• Cut flower beds (excellent vase life)

• Memorial or heirloom gardens

• Focal points in landscape design

Special Notes

• The bomb-style bloom (dense inner tuft) adds dramatic flair and unique texture

• Perfect for weddings and floral design — romantic, modern, and playful all at once

• Hardy enough for Zone 3 winters, especially with proper fall mulching