Peony Registry

Seedling number Hollingsworth 2255. Specific parentage history not available, said to be one of many from Saunders Quads Hybrids F2 generation seed parents fertilized with Silver Dawn F3 pollen. The original plant was selected in 1991 from among flowering plants at the Kalamazoo seedlings field of P. C. ‘Chris” Laning along with numerous others. Blooms Early to Early Midseason, opening shortly before ‘Red Charm’ (weeks 2 to 3 bloom time rating). SINGLE flower form, 10-18 or more very wide, well cupped guard petals, surround a large center boss of pollen-bearing stamens. The predominant color feature is the large flares of bright magenta at the center base of petals, the color diffusing lightly out into the petals. The overall petal color at opening is blush, quickly passing to off-white, punctuated by the ring of large flares, invoking the geometric star pattern of traditional Pennsylvania Dutch barn decoration, and from that, suggesting the name. Pale green carpels are very hairy, numbering 3-4, topped by deep red stigmas. Presumed tetraploid, but breeding fertility not yet tested, nor have seeds been recorded. Vigorous in growth and increase, the rich green leaflets clothe medium height stems (32 inches) that stand well against spring storms unaided by support.