Description: Red-coloured Itohs are a rarity, and dark red Itohs are still yet even more uncommon. 'Simply Red' is a decadent, black-red upon opening and lightens with sun exposure but still remains fairly dark. It is quite striking and is commented on when visitors walk by. Many red Itohs suffer from a foliage afflicition in late summer where they appear to develop fungal measles. However this is a superficial genetic trait imparted by red Itohs that have Paeonia delavayi as a parent. When cut back in fall or late summer, the plant will begin to grow perfectly clean foliage in spring. Strong, rigid stems hold the flower upright under all conditions, as expected of an intersectional peony. Side buds extend the blooming period.