Nelda’s Joy

Nelda’s Joy.  Hollingsworth.  2012.  Herbaceous Hybrid.  Seedling number Hollingsworth 3047. Parentage: Salmon Dream x Pink Vanguard. SEMI-DOUBLE to full DOUBLE, the six-inch diameter blossom is of flower-in-flower anatomy, a flower type yet rare in early opening peonies. Petals are of a light shell pink hue, the density paling outward. Well rounded guard petals are broad, inner petals’ ends range from lightly serrate to laciniate. A narrow band of normal, pollen-bearing stamens encircle the inner flower, characteristic of cultivars carrying the progressive stamen transformation genetic trait. Flowers may be variable in form (semi-double to full double) and amount of notching in petals.   One flower per stem, pleasantly fragrant, placed a little above the bush on strong stems of medium height, typically ranging to 32 inches. Leaflets are broad and keeled (partially folded), the ends pointed, the color a rich bluish green.  Premium divisions ship late September to mid October.