“A 1955 Auten Peonies FAMOUS FOR COLOR~ lit py 2 tia a . 4 Pst - mh before the regular Peony season PEONY SILOAM, A SUPERB WHITE EDWARD AUTEN, JR. Princeville, Illinois c~ oul g3 5 PLANT AUTEN PEONIES Select our varieties with complete confidence. We are supremely interested in selling only the very finest kinds. Every order has my individual attention from the time it is received until the roots are shipped. Every root you receive has been fresh dug. We ship only high quality roots, standard 3 to 5 eye divisions, the best size to plant. Every variety listed is outstanding and worth while. THE AUTEN ORIGINATIONS The Auten Originations include many of the world’s finest. Among them we offer you: — UNFADING REDS in doubles, singles and Japanese type SINGLES and JAPANESE unsurpassed ROSE FRAGRANT doubles SURE BLOOMING late doubles for the warmer parts of the Peony belt STRONG STEMS and vigorous growth GLORIOUS HYBRIDS, extra early blooming When you plant an Auten Origination you are to enjoy some of the results of 35 years of careful work in the development of new varieties. Peonies do not come true from seed, and the 240 Auten Peonies were selected from many thousands grown from seed. It takes from nine to fifteen years to make a new variety ready for sale, and for one so chosen, several hundred mature plants, five years or more of age, may have been grown and discarded. 1955 INTRODUCTIONS. AUTEN ORIGINATIONS Explorer (No. 1682) 2 iepbeh Soe ao tert peer pee aint oer ered Rat tah MORNE June Giant An enormous dark red. Has given me the largest red bloom I ever raised. Late. Won as best red double, 1946 National show, best three blooms red double, 1952 National show ..... Louis Joliet Our most popular red double. One of the most sought after kinds in our fields. Color is dark red, clear and unfading. Produces an enormous number of blooms on stiff stems. Ear- ly midseason. Fine for cut flowers. A “must ist acbyls ae ae eben tar anraia a8 are Lucky Star A very distinct dark red, medium sized bloom held above the foliage on a tall, vigorous plant. Near bomb type, with yellow markings on some center petals. Very late, makes a fine LISI 2 Vibert eecteeccecees erates tecseyideter sae eerveeticanootisrerrts canes Paul Revere Red double, late blooming, just be- fore Cleopatra. Large bloom, grand color, an Shel anel Gait? alan het Grote rl Cl ee arch or reat Radiant Red An entirely new color break in reds attracting immediate attention here. Late mid- season. Very trim bomb, on very stiff stems of medium height. Very distinct, and one of the FUTOS EC tot Ae atc ae enn seer Pawan tt ast on vsne Rosalie Close to the true American Beauty shade of red. It looks like a rose, is especially beautiful in bud. Not tall, but a very strong grower, gives many blooms. Lasts a long time, fine for cutting We have customers returning repeatedly to get more roots of Rosalie. Mid Season .............cccccccees 3 3.00 2.00 1.50 4.00 5.00 5.00 2.00 4.00 1.50 3.00 2.50 RED DOUBLES, Auten Originations (cont.) Santa Fe Brilliant dark red double, color does not fade. Midseason, blooming just after Louis Jol- iet. Strong grower, many blooms on stiff stems Highest. qualityaesien. ccc este eee Sinbad A large, high built bloom, deep mulberry. A novelty, as the edges of the petals are silvery. Late midseason. Tall stiff stems. A striking ef- FOCE Fitclcccsduasnnastiicoaneneseetes acck Pe eens neem ee eee Tempest Generally considered the best dark red peony for color, rich, dark, clear and unfading. Midseason on good stems. Substance extra. When not disbudded, one stem makes a fine DOUQUEC tisk. cesdeosebennloanesuctegeerecech te MATE LaI ren nen ree ee Uncle Tom High built bloom, very dark, on tall stiff stems. Exceptional for color. At its best in cool Climate e..t. itnie.csavntaetpisescteve eerie een ee WHITE DOUBLES, Auten Originations 2.00 2.00 2.00 This list of white doubles contains some of the world’s finest. They are specially notable for refinement and charm. Most of them are delightfully rose fragrant. They cover the whole season of bloom, early to very late. Belle Chinoise | (Pretty Chinese) An immaculate full double creamy white. Sure to open, near to bomb type. Very fragrant. Medium size and height. Late midseason. A most exquisite peony Betsey Ross Full double pure white, exquisitely formed bloom, petals incurved. Rose fragrant. Late,-on tall stiff stems avery distinctise Carolina Moon Bomb type, white outer petals with yellow center. Valuable not only because there are few kinds in this color combination, but also because of) its extreme earliness and its great charm. Medium height, stiff stems. A very poptlarsvarictyy. wae ee eee Flower Girl Here is perfection. White, opening blush, a beautifully formed bloom, strong rose fragrance. Low plant, very stiff stems We can- not recommend this too highly, it is irresistible Juanita Blush white full double on stiff stems of . medium height. Rose fragrant. Midseason. Beau- tifully formed, a charming variety ...................-.- Kathryn Curran A large late pure white double of especial refinement and charm. Rose fragrant. A mass of trim foliage starting at the ground level, the blooms carried gracefully above it ...... Maid of Honor We are proud of this Peony and pre- dict much for it. It is very large, full double, built higher in the center. Pure white. Late, on tallavery stitf*stemss Very -distinetes ee Mary Auten One of the highest rated of all peo- nies. White, opening a definite pale lavender. Rose fragrant. Large full double bloom sure to open even if weather is unfavorably warm Moste popular scccmecttwe co oe ee Mr. Moon Full double; white with a definite yellow cast through the bloom, most pronounced in this respect of any kind I know. Late, sure opening ony tall stiff Stems cin concrete een nee ree Moline Very late and sure to open well. White opening with lovely lavender tints deepest in the center. A charming variety and one of those de- pendable kinds at the very end of the season 4 1.50 2.00 3.00 2.50 2.00 5.00 6.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 WHITE DOUBLES, Auten Originations (Cont.) Molly Pitcher A large white double, opening pale flesh. Rose fragrant. Late midseason, opens well. A show flower, globular and very full petalled. One of my especial favorites. Outstanding for POLINMeMlell meant ta lcctin ihe ecu hase ete toe 2.00 Nauvoo Blush white double, with deeper tints in the center. High built bloom, fragrant, and of show quality, a wonderful peony. Late ................ 2.00 Northland Very early high built bomb, my earliest white double. Rose fragrant. Tall stiff stems, and a strong grower. Fine for cutting and should prove of great value for commercial flower growers. A standout in the field when in bloom, with most of all other kinds still in green bud 6.00 Old Siwash One of our truly great doubles. Com- parable with Auten’s Pride. It has a most won- derful silvery sheen, a delicate blush on opening. Rose fragrant. Large bloom on tall stiff stems. Early midseason. We cannot recommend this too Hated eh hs OER Bai Beyer eh yin Cala ig aipeaied tre. Seep or Pa Rae A 2.00 Plymouth Full double white, opening flesh, rose fragrant. Very late, on tall stiff stems. Sub- stance extra, and one of the surest of all late doubles to open. A most valuable variety. Has passed most critical test for commercial cut FIG Wie Camere tees cartee Nek ee ee ere ee 3.00 Prudence Very chaste full double white, rose frag- rant, refinement personified. On tall stiff stems. A strong grower and fine in every way. Early 1.50 Sanctuary Here is a Peony with great individuality and fine quality throughout. Petals ivory white and of very heavy texture. Some blooms are immaculate, others heavily splashed with scarlet, adding beauty. Early midseason, good plant and SLM Am OTCA TRULY OF ILO crite sar ecececettrtaicciss ecetsreer 2.50 Siloam Very large, full double, sure to open, late. Rose fragrant. An exquisite bloom, opening wide. Has been enthusiastically received. I con- sider it better than Kelway’s Glorious, being a MIMIC MeO GULOLeLOLIN CC kD LOOM ae areccteerss slctcuvttres ceo oceta? 2.00 Sistie White, opening a very definite pink, Late, sure to open, substance extra, and the strongest rose fragrance of any Peony I know. High built bloom. Very valuable for cutting near the end of the season. A low price for such a fine variety 1.50 Vincennes White bomb, opening with center flushed pink, yellow and lght green, soon changing to pure white. Rose fragrant, on tall very stiff BLOM GeV CY VERCA LL Veen etvntere cat rece cect on eos ean 2.00 White Beauty Very large double, with a few hidden stamens. Exquisite pearly white. Tall. A strong grower, free bloomer. Early midseason. Invalu- HD eeOTRCUUL IN Oe Makes a tte htee Matinee eecstha ee aieetauaied 1:25 White Delight Full double, outstanding for its pur- ity of color and charm. Substance exceptional. Rose fragrant. Early. A most useful variety. OnTeInOStE DOD a taewWillte mma eae cpr stemacckeeeess 1.50 Yukon Spotless snow white double, very large, and with a perfect center. Late on tall stiff stems. Petals are so long it needs cool weather to open out properly. A 9% inch bloom won best bloom in show, 1948 National Peony Show, and in 1951 National Show it won best white double in the HC ye eee moter tate taste recdisindoabnccsivsasoubs tnas 2.00 PINK DOUBLES, Auten Originations Alaska Outer petals deep pink, center shading to light salmon. Early. Rose fragrant, a long keeper when cut. This is an unusual, distinctive flower which sells well at our fields .................. Auten’s Pride One of the world’s finest peonies. Light pink with lavender shades, deepening tow- ard the center. Large bloom, sure to open, rose fragrant. Late. Stems stiff, just above medium height. A strong grower. None finer in its color. Approved by commercial cut flower growers Cloud Castle. A very late deep pink, rose fragrant. Lasts unusually well when cut. Opens easily Very tall. Bloom has especial charm .................... Cathie Ann A large full double. Deep rose pink, rose fragrant. Late midseason. Stems tall and very stiff. Has been approved by critical com- mercial "cut flowers 2row ers) ....cs eee Eloise A gorgeous large pink double, outstanding both for its size and its lovely soft and clear lav- ender color. Rose fragrant. Loose petalled and sure to open, a _ beautifully finished bloom. Medium height... Gatessnqees. matic Galena Deep rose or light red. Late. A full double on a very fine plant. Stems tall, stiff. An un- usual flower that attracts immediate attention Joyce One of the last to bloom, a rather flat double, medium pink. A beautiful flower, especially val- uable because of its sure opening. On tall stiff SUCTIS@aticcrstetcstecsedesetcesereteaceeteeec creer eee Maxine A large nicely formed pink double on stiff stems just over medium height. Late midseason. If you have this you do not need the older THEL OSG Ftiaccssseonciessecer tetas etcetera ene ee Naomi A delicate creamy flesh pink double, on tall stiff stems. Bloom rather flat, one of our largest. Early midseason. On tall stiff stems ..............c0060. Patty A very unusual and charming shade of pink, might be called salmon pink. Bloom and plant not large. Extra fine for cutting and table decoration. ate midseason wos ee eee Peggy A warm, bright silvery pink double of med- ium size, the petals notched and crinkled. Stems short, very stiff. This is one of the earliest var- leties to bloom. It has proved to be especially useful and long keeping as a cut flower, and blooming before the early old Edulis Superba, is quite useful for Decoration Day in some places. In color and form it is one of our most charm- ing blooms. It is irresistible and sells on sight Pink Glow A bright pink double, late. Bloom loose petalled, beautifully finished. Held high above the foliage, which starts at the ground. An out Standing, variety ~..se eee Pink Monarch A bright, deep pink, with a collar of golden yellow. Very distinct and unusual. Large flat bloom, midseason. Very tall, bloom carried well above the foliage. A picturesque variety that attracts considerable attention in our fields. Should be in every peony collection .......cccccccseesseee Pink Solange A large medium pink double, full petialled. Late and a sure opener. Stem tall and stiff. This is a deeper pink than the old Solange, and much more dependable. In fact, it is one of the finest of all pink doubles, with high quality in.coloy,.form-ands plant shabitu.etean | eee 6 1.50 2.50 3.00 4.00 1.50 2.00 1.50 1.50 1.50 5.00 2.50 PINK DOUBLES, Auten Originations (Cont.) Prairie State A very large pink, with darker tints toward the center. A sure opener on a tall rugged plant. Midseason. This should be grown by those who like quality in big blooms, but who live where hot weather makes some big’ ones un- Rey BENE AY, — cn. 3y Pere toh r ya aed ea pa et ae ern ee eR Virginia Lee A glorious pink double, large and with exceptional charm and beauty. It is when newly opened, more silver and salmon than pink. It has a lovely glow. Opening wide, the form is especi- aliy beautiful. Virginia Lee is very, very late, but unlike many late Peonies, opens freely and completely. We consider this one of our greatest OLIS IU ALONinmmrn tore 1c cette ree ecrcedtecnesecet reece ea oie aeeraes THE AUTEN SINGLE PEONIES 3.00 Single Peonies, with their fine contrast between the petals and the mass of yellow stamens should be more and more appreciated. We have obtained kinds which re- tain their charm till the end, which do not flop their petals and which are borne on strong plants with good stems. Discordant colored seed pods are not tolerated, they must be green or same color as the petals. Extreme size is not desirable. Choose from the following with confidence. RED SINGLES, Auten Originations Arcturus Clear, rich velvety red, fine form and substance, on a good plant. Does not fade. Has won many awards, and is of the very highest CULE URE Vato tee deren rite ce cat ree eactas sees cikecic seurssWeccmedpentiee cence sate Kaskaskia Large dark red, color clear, unfading and very fine. Very early, good stem and plant. Useful for cut flowers at Decoration Day when CAMYeAOUDLESsATOINOLCOU Uatsssaccteacastccsasdacsnecascsastaccases Kickapoo Late variety. Another dark red single of highest. quality, on tall stiff stems. Does not fade wASconsistent winner al SNOWS <..sccc.c-ccesereee Medicine Hat Very dark clear red single, color holds, and the yellow stamens are very prom- inent. Lasts a long time. Trim plant and stiff stems, medium height. Midseason. Fine ............ Red Velvet Late variety. Two rows of petals, which stay nicely cupped even in adverse weather. Vel- vety dark red, color does not fade. Stiff stems. A most impressive variety which customers buy on sight. Red Velvet and either Arcturus or Kas- kaskia give succession of bloom and should be in every. Line: COLECTION OL PCOMICS ~\.ceiieereeeneseecn-se Sun-up Dark red single, very rich color, does not fade. Trim plant, medium height. Late .............. Tonti A large single in the typical American Beauty shade of red. Plant tall and vigorous My best in that shade .......scccssesccsrccsscssscssseercseees WHITE SINGLES, Auten Originations Elfin White White, of great purity. Medium sized blooms, making a charming cluster if not dis- budded, and valuable for arrangements with CET STE LO WOT Sees sae ee enirias ance PS ua seep tereseta Puritan Maid Distinct, with two rows of crinkled petals, makes a Grand SNOW ....sscessseseeseereeseseees Watchman Late for a single, and valuable for that reason. Trim bloom, nicely cupped. Good plant. Wedding Day Midseason. Two rows of petals, a PP OREDIOOIN ET Rt ncestiescctarerseetetarcneca.pppomeratoversveceres tase White Perfection A great favorite, worthy of its name. A prize winner, outstanding for charm .... PINK SINGLES are listed on Page 12 7 2.50 OFFICINALIS HYBRIDS, Auten Originations This new race of hybrid Peonies starts blooming about ten days before the regular Peony season. They are of surpassing beauty, giving us reds more brilliant than we have ever had, and new shades in coral, cherry, salmon, and orange; reds free from any purple cast. They were obtained by crossing the common species, Alfiflora, on the Officinalis species, which is much earlier. The result is a longer Peony season, a vast improvement in reds, and beautiful variations in form of bloom. Until one has seen them, he can have no comprehension of their beauty. They make an outstanding addition to any garden. We suggest that for first order you select from Chocolate Soldier, John Harvard, Rose Marie and Veritas. Auten’s Red A full double, bomb type, with slight yellow markings. Very rich velvety dark red, large bloom, on a fine plant. One of the finest double Hybrids we have S€eM ..........cccssessssssscceceee 20.00 Beacon Hill Very early dark red single, large bloom on tall stiff stems, one of earliest to bloom ........ 5.00 Black Gold Probably the darkest red of my Hybrids Glossy, with a very few yellow markings. Med- LUM “SIZE, V Very .CIStINCUs ssc. ccaete ee 4.00 Bright Eyes A very bright red double, with con- trasting yellow markings. As snappy as the NAME. LNPLICS terse ete erereeeae eee ee 2.00 Chief Justice Very rich deep red, color exceptional- ly fine. Semi-double, showing some beautiful yel- low stamens in center held erect on long red fil- aments. Good size, with stiff stems. One of the latest Hybrids, blooming with the first of the FeRuUlar, SEASON ies. -eccucitss ares ee eae ee 6.00 China Boy A brilliant red single, almost scarlet, on short stiff stems. Trim foliage, making a very distinctive-plant=.cs.r...., use 2.50 Chocolate Soldier Darkest “black red’. No other peony like it. Some blooms have yellow mark- ings, some do not. Blooms on the same plant may range from full double with no markings to Japanese type with brilliant yellow markings. When full double the petals have absolutely per- fect, precise formation. One of our greatest PEONIES Ayh ti Siaseacdh ered tee ere ee ee eee 4.50 Dakota Very early red single, with a definite or- ange scarlet tone. Prominent yellow center as both stamens and the filaments are yellow. Trim petals, fine plant and foliage 2:.....0......s.... 4.00 Dandy Dan _ A brilliant red bloom with some stam- ens showing. Beautiful form, on tall stiff stems. Color very fine. Greatly admired by visitors to ourstieldss Sivite kita ee) nae eet oe 6.00 Dusky Dinah Dark winey red, usually with three rows of petals and lovely yellow center. Sub- stance outstanding. Late, blooming with the first Ofathesrestlansseasonwiindss ween eee ome 5.00 Early Scout (R. Carvel x Single Tenuifolia) A very dark red single, blooms very early, before the other Hybrids. Cut foliage, distinct. Better bloomithan=Smonthiise .e ee kee ee 6.00 Fancy Free A brilliant orange red; Japanese type of bloom, with yellow markings and occasionally aeLuit in’ thetcentere--.e) ce ee ee 4.00 Good News Distinct shade of deep orange red, single with deep yellow stamens in center. Early. Foliage*quitesdistinci ee ee 4.00 8 OFFICINALIS HYBRIDS, Auten Originations (Cont.) Janet A very large bloom, typical bomb type. A definite cerise, outstanding and very attractive to-thoseswhnoslike this shaderof red". ...0.0.c.ce ce 2.00 John Harvard A magnificent peony that has won high awards in competition. Very dark red single, sometimes almost double. Color is clear and does not fade. A strong grower with tall SGlIPeSTGINIS LOSE CLEDENGAD]E 0) sc.2.cr,cccsacersscescecestes 3.00 Nevada A very spectacular black red single. The color holds. On a plant of exceptional vigor, with StI eSLGINISMEV.EL Van LAL a writes ereattetsceens ieecet nc Tie 3.50 Old Main A large bomb, full petalled. A very bril- liant red, with a slight bluish cast that gives it carrying power. Distinct and much admired _ 5.00 Queen of the Dawn Very early. Large single which stays cupped for a long time. Very light creamy pink, with harmonizing pale yellow filaments PATISIES GEL OIG Bec eee es crnc coe tes a cent aec ce Pecan gs Soe ePeats Sota ot toes ties 8.00 Red Dandy Very large dark red bomb, like a round ball. No other kind like it. Full petalled, opens easily. Very outstanding, and always greatly - AUNT COURDVEVISILOLSwreitctsc ee -ceres creer ieee eerscetesnies 15.00 Red Ensign Very dark red, trim bloom held above low foliage, some stamens show. Outstanding POPUL Vom CUN1-C1.0 UD Les. cree seco ta ecncec bt eetereee. ek 2.50 Red Monarch (Auten-Glasscock) A beautifully pro- portioned red bomb. Red with slight purplish cast. Ab strong grower. Tall) stiff stems: 2i70..2. 4.00 Robert W. Auten A standout even among high class kinds, instantly sought out by visitors. On ma- ture plants practically full double, “a mass of dark red ruffles’. Color deep, rich, unfading red, brilliant and appealing. Fine plant .............. 17.00 Rosedale A brilliant medium red, petals somewhat incurved, showing some stamens. A striking re- semblance to a rose. Blooms held erect above low foliage. Very popular as a cut flower .......... 2.00 Rose Marie (Auten-Glasscock) A full double, rich clear red, with no trace of purple, unfading. A beautifully formed bloom, the arrangement of center petals unlike any other. Early. Fine TULAT TT LO Lime teeaaeeter este costes otiunte tons tecssbrcencrt ceceak sens 3.50 Style Show (first named Valencia) Dark red single with decided orange cast. Two rows of petals, Gocd size, with tall stiff stems. Fine ..............:... 5.00 Topeka Full double bomb type. Clear brilliant red, a distinctive shade of great refinement. Tall SLMS eV LLC Hie ACI CClaet. te: ee cccees ct ststcweeisceeteserteee es 5.00 Veritas Unusual type of bloom, narrow center petals, pointed, with yellow stamens fastened to the edges of some, and other stamens forming a yellow collar. A very brilliant dark red, glisten- ing and enduring like varnished mahogany. Barly-and a@ Very Strong STOWET ...0..0.....cceesenesseese 2.00 N.B. Prices on many ofthese Hybrids have been re- duced for 1955, possible because of increased stocks. We hope you will be sure to include some of them in your order. If you like red peonies you are missing the great- est thrill possible until you grow some of these wonder- ful varieties. JAPANESE TYPE PEONIES So called because the Japanese people prefer them to all other types of bloom, and were the first to develop many new kinds. This type is the first advance toward the double type, with narrow center petals, usually edged with yellow. They furnish color contrasts in the same flower obta‘ned in no other type, and are especially valu- able for cutting. In the anemone type, the narrow center petals have no contrasting yellow marking, though some, like Nippon Gold, have all yellow centers. The AUTEN ORIGINATIONS, Japanese Type These are a vast improvement over those from Japan. They have better color, better stems, and are much more vigorous. RED JAPANESE, Auten Originations Arapahoe A rich black red, the color holds. Center is red, heavily edged and tipped light yellow. Midseason. Has shown exceptional keeping qual- ities as a cut flower. Distinct and outstanding 2.50 Creve Coeur Very distinct. A mass of color on a large, tall plant. Clear dark red, rose fragrant. As bloom ages a narrow white line appears down the middle of the outside of the narrow center Petal Sav CLV PODULAL ccccectcscossctctecttenseeces este seat ceeee 1.50 Dragon’s Nest Medium red, typical Jap except that many blooms have a large tuft in the center (the dragon’s nest). Very brilliant for garden effect. Ueber se) Ei ake tert yawn repo certo ty se Ee 1.50 Dr. Jekyll Brilliant dark red, some of the side blooms have more petals than the Japanese type. Tall stiff stems. It is very late, and very valu- able for garden effect near the end of the season 1.50 Gallant Red One of the earliest. Rich dark red, almost solid color, does not fade. Stiff stems, VOLVn VIS GLOMUS DIAN cacccrastsvarssonrestratcaie tec cen ere reees are 2:50 Nippon Beauty Rich red, with the typical yellow edges in center of the Japanese type. Color clear and untading. Good even in hottest weath- er. Late. Tall stiff stems. Plant very vigorous 1.00 Nippon Brilliant...The highest rated red peony, irrespective of type. Brilliant red, almost an orange shade, with usual yellow markings. Late, on tail stiff stems. Outstanding in every way 1.50 Nippon Parade A bright red Jap, center flushed lighter. Midseason. Tall, good stems, very strong grower. One of the best for landscape effect. Very popular, a best seller at our fields .............. 1.50 Sntinel All red, in the typical American beauty shade, with small yellow dots on narrow red center petaloids. On a perfect plant, tall, stiff SENS, salle aeStlON Oe OCLOWCI a ayrsss: ete-camesticremctercrs 1.50 Sword Dance Large medium dark red Jap, very showy, the yellow center making a brilliant con- trast of color. Tall plant. Very effective for garden display, and one of the finest Japs .......... 2.00 The Baron An odd shade of red with some yellow in the center. Bold and striking. Medium height, POO SUSI: seraisccssesgeecvesacgsvevaconctapetaeveateteenenctacerscestomnnar ts 1.50 PINK JAPANESE, Auten Originations Alstead Deep pink and all yellow center, on an extra fine plant. Very strong grower and free DL OOM ie Tare tent emer rere ace tae tn cate ere Crees 2.00 Chaminade Very pale, soft pink with an all yellow center. Very effective when not disbudded. Tall Stil fe sStOnis greece rer sien coos Lee eee Peet ee 1.50 Golden Gate A deep pink with trim yellow center, Large bloom, good substance. Tall plant ............ 2.00 Nippon Gold Purest golden yellow center of nar- row crinkled petals. Guards pink. Extra fine for cutting. A very strong grower and a best sel- ler. On mature plants, the small side blooms sometimes appear as dainty pink and yellow double rosettes, just right for a corsage ............ 1.50 Sky Pilot Deep pink with all yellow center slightly flushed pink. Very large, on tall stiff stems. A SCNSAUONAIAVATICL Vastune techies divirsastiiee ttt cee 5.00 NOVELTY PINK JAPANESE, Auten Originations Here is a list of most unusual kinds for those who like the so-called “orchid” shades in flowers. Bo-Peep Medium sized orchid pink Japanese on a bAliNSti Pe S LOM MCdeN SOPOUSE DAN tec teeeee ee 250 Do Tell Outer petals very pale orchid pink, narrow center petals much darker, some of them red. A very striking combination, with the color con- trast the strongest of any of this type I have SCGMGnrteceat seer tuteetstifenenedereast cpa erro te a Dee 3.00 Fancy Nancy A soft cerise pink Jap, almost uni- form in color, of exceptional purity and refine- TATED ANE igs Piety a Reh ha eee me ER BE Rar or ai geo mann Aan 3.00 Gay Paree Guards deep cerise, center flushing lighter with creamy tints. One of the most dis- tinct and striking of all novelties. Bloom has exceptional charm and distinction, and plant Ha bDitelams tegen ite ttttee pa teterreas sett raieeke eeeem rein cteos 3.50 Hollywood An unusual shade of creamy cerise pink. Large trim blocms on stiff stems of medium height. Late. On old plants some blooms come Near yarouDlegececgese ater tere eee ete oT ET 1550 Monterey Light salmon, cerise and golden tints in the center. Midseason. Very distinct, very fine and much admired. Worthy of a place in any PATUCT MASS ELON Oo FO Wea eercti toro esceeteattaceeesntece 1.50 TESTIMONIALS All unsolicited, all received in 1954 From New Hampshire. The two Louis Joliet — what a gorgeous rich satisfying red — the red I’ve been waiting for! From New York. Your Officinalis Hybrids are so beautiful. From Iowa. This is a repeat order. I received the others in good shape. From Indiana. I saw Gay Paree some years ago and it was beautiful. From Missouri. Mrs. S. and I believe that Chocolate Soldier is the most beautiful peony we own cr have ever seen. From Michigan. The peonies arrived and are excellent roots with fine fat eyes. From Colorado. The Peggy was especially lovely. From Wisconsin. Your roots are the finest. From Iilinois. Auten’s Red purchased from you 10/52 has five blooms on it. Fine thing. John Harvard and Chocolate Soldier did their stuff. These hybrids are wonderful additions to the peony family. From Ohio. Medicine Hat — This is surely a good red peony. It is a deep clear red (single) that lasts and lasts despite everything. From Iowa. Sure was pleased with my assortment of peonies, so am cerdering a few more from your catalogue. ipl WHITE JAPANESE, Auten Originations Undoubtedly the finest white Jap that ever came from Japan is the variety Isani-Gidui. It has white guard petals of wonderful form and substance, and a center of yellow petaloids. But the stem is not the best and the plant also lacks vigor. The Auten white Japs, most of them seedlings of Isani Gidui, are the same type of bloom, some are larg- er. Most of them have deeper yellow centers than Isani Gidui, and all are on vigorous plants with good stems. You need look no further for top quality white Japs. Christine Tall, fairly early, large bloom, very vig- orous plant, stiffly erect. Highest quality .......... 3.50 Cordova Very large bloom, white with light yellow Center whine plants OuUstanc incense eee cet 2.50 Fairbanks Distinctive in this list because it is the latest to bloom and opens palest pink, fading to white, with the usual yellow center. Very tall, the most vigorous of«the list and first class in OV ELVAWAY eres ectisecnpeet oases eT een ne ee 2.50 Moon of Nippon (R. W. Auten). Combining the high quality bloom of Isani Gidui and the fine stiff stem of Marie Lemoine, its parents, this white Jap ranks with the very best. Beautiful pure yellow center. Has won many awards ....... 5.00 Nome Probably the earliest, and with the fine POINTS -ofsthe® OLNersi yates ct eee ere ae 3.00 Roberta Very large, and tall, a refined bloom, plant lessetormalcthansthesothersew seme teen ee 2.00 Sitka Pure white outer petals, center petaloids are broader than in the others and are a very rich yellow. Tall, the bloom carried in stately fashion aDGVe. low LOliag erp eae ae ee ee en eee 2.00 PINK SINGLES, Auten Originations Angeius Generally considered the best light pink single. Large bloom on a fine plant. Even, soft pink, outstanding for its charm and refinement 2.00 Elfin Pink A soft, even toned true pink that holds its color to the end. Good stem, fine plant. Really high quality pink singles are rare, but Elfin Pink comes up to the most exacting require- INGYVUS es catsfeateraces atten cif eact ricer tetas Cen CCN Le Ee ek 1.59 Mischief Late. The finest late single pink, keeps exceptionally well as a cut flower. Carried gracefully on tall stems. Very vigorous and freer DlOOMIN Gee. tee cet see ee en ee 25 Mocn Mist Pale pink with darker dots. Very early, on tall stiff stems. An exquisite variety, valuable both for garden effect and for cutting. Opening bud looks like a pink rosebud. Useful for Decor- ation Day where the doubles are just barely too LAU Gige ot eivcucecdecontce iakesie is eee ane ee ope ee eee 1.50 Town Crier A very large bloom shading from light red to almost white. Fine plant. A valuable HOvelty Asti King eee, ween eee re oe Ome ee 3.00 From Iowa. Veritas is one of my favorite reds. Am today sending you an crder for more of your officinalis hybrids. They sure are the nicest reds I have seen for color. 12 FREE PEONY If your order totals $10.00 or more we will include free of charge one choice Peony of our selection, or if it totals $20.00 or more we will include two choice Peonies of our selection. Collection offers not to be included in figuring totals for free Peony. COLLECTION OFFERS (until October 10th only) Collection No 1 5 peonies, labelled, all different, 3 to 5 eye divisions. My selection, Postpaid in CV He eee eae MeN eee rc ch oat nasadetneceter tactuieoent 3.50 Collection No. 2. 10 peonies, not labelled, small one eye to standard 3 to 5 eye, my selection. Post- ALIN BUN Em weapon ae etree se, en oat, Nonseds eee eavehat ons 4.00 These two collections are made up from the fine kinds we sell, fresh dug divisions left over. They do not include inferior kinds. This is an oppor- tunity to get fine peonies at lowest possible cost. Collection No. 3 Select 5 peonies, all different, list ing at $1.50 each, $7.50 value, sent postpaid in (OLAS Ea Cit at, eee ee Co renee aa es eee ne ea oe as 6.00 Collection No. 4 Select 5 peonies, all different, list- in at $2.00 each, a $10.00 value, sent postpaid in LD ered Ole Stee ecco sede acct Recess brat stan es ake de dnat cuss desue ates 8.00 Collection No. 5 Select peonies, one of a kind, list- ed at not less than $2.00 nor more than $5.00 each, to a total value of $20.00, sent postpaid Tee WOE, Ss el ge ere on oe pore PO Rie epee a an ree ae ce oe 16.00 TERMS TERMS—Cash with order. Prices include delivery in the U. S. on orders of $3.00 or more. Under $3.00 add 35 cents for postage and packing. On Canadian orders, add 20 cents for each root. Parcels post simpler than express. Send import permit and remit in U. S. exchange. Minimum Order — $2.00 plus 35 cents postage and packing. Canada $5.00. No C.O.D. orders. Size of Roots. We send quality roots, the standard 3 to 5 eye division which is the best size to plant. FULL PLANTING AND CULTURAL DIRECTIONS are sent with each order. ' FALL SHIPMENT ONLY, beginning September Ist. PLEASE SEND YOUR ORDER AS EARLY AS POS- SIBLE. We are at the mercy of the weather after Nov- ember ist. Early planting though not imprative is nev- ertheless advantageous. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND SPRING PLANTING. Fall is the natural time to plant. Gain in spring planting over planting the following fall is doubtful, and not worth the extra care and risk involved. 13 SOME FINE AUTEN DOUBLES GROWING PEONIES Peonies are not only the finest of all hardy perennial plants, they are also just about the easiest to grow. Plant- ed in good soil, well drained, with full sun if possible, they last many years, and require a minimum of care. Since a Peony is so long lived, it pays to get only the finest kinds. The added satisfaction and enjoyment every year in having the very best makes first cost not an ex- pense, but an investment. The varieties we offer are outstanding for quality. The roots we send out are fresh dug, properly cut, vigorous. OUR PRICES are most reasonable for such service. Even in the face of increasing labor, material and transporta- tion costs, we lower our prices as we are able to increase our stocks of these new kinds. Our 1955 list contains several price reductions over 1954. We appreciate your confidence and your orders. TESTIMONIALS All unsolicited, all received in 1954 From Connecticut. Cathie Ann is our favorite peony. It was beyond a] expectations this year. From Missouri. Radiant Red is a real thriller. Big Ben was perfect. Was loaded with buds that opened over a long period and lasted well. The rose fragrance was to me, as delightful as any peony I know. _ From Massachusetts. Your selection has always pleased me in the past. From Ohio. The pecnies I bought from you last fall are doing fine. From Conneticut. Our order from you last year “performed” beauti- fully this year and we are thrilled with every one. From Washington. Chief Justice, along with Gay Paree attracted mcre comment and happy exclamations than any others. From Virginia. The Auten peonies I have seen are indeed beautifu!. From Iliinois. Still think Nippon Beauty one of the best, perhaps the very best of your Japs—It is wonderful! From Massachusetts. Your peonies I bought last fall were wonder- ful. I would like to purchase more. From New Hampshire, Both plants of Gay Paree purchased from you last fa!l flowered beautiully. It certainly is an outstanding peony. From Mississippi. I received the peonies and have them planted. They were such fine specimens am sure I shall be suecessful. From Conneticut. The dwarf plants are perfect for the bed that they are in. From Indiana. The peonies you sent looked fine and were planted immediately. From Oregon. The peonies you sent me had their best year this year— they were magnificent. 14 ORDER BLANK TO EDWARD AUTEN, JR. Princeville, Ill. Date Your Name Address City & State Amount Enclosed $ Orders $3.00 and over prepaid in U. S. Under $3.00 add 35 cents postage and packing. Minimum order $2.00 plus 35 cents postage. No. C.0.D. Please do not ask for a definite shipping date unless absolutely necessary. Pear Variety ae Amount oN cpr $l on.ee- taba .2 a“ bisqexq Teve) bua 00.8% exshul 0082 tob10 maminilt -2iiteng bod egnicog ae ton ob be 1.0.9 eet c wef ' t et) TR we Se ND ae eee eee none earns wae ons ss Ps ere it I A Nhe tae i ~t 2 tie! 7 : me ey i “ddvomn A, mato ‘o egebeayet lent coat met Yo elt ‘ : ; eae Tan he: 1Me ey Fa Pan eta CRS ir Oro. i ” ; - ? .- eae J 7 oe Mey 3 ee sy 41 46 { -) § 1 mei) 6th ores Pf isha yr eut € eRe, : Liat tad ‘ he , : ah My Miaaial tretentil me Ndi Apet fi aie ig Haw & Aer yee et eee, te ete? ft hd may Gf ee. (ere: pA acta ere is See” 2 r t 4 . ay oS , wa W | Py bes Pyiemn Misia wis Svneihiis Syhhie phan iN sitovehse Caiivksh- epee i tine’ ay, am) aay 7 amr Me ren Aiba, FF Asa e way waa mil i Blvd: Aes yay Dall WA Wane. Bl ee Plpe ve ‘te Maes) Sel pear pertoresid™ lew OR eee ‘are Baha, Woop “wey toon: awed atlisitte 4 i fi Te ys Cee Ch wh, iy 1 arity, » Tt? winks Sa hen oti Mt Pepys Gee) al the bvedt, -perhes det. 0 dengan Paah f ee a | Se CT ee } ft Milnode hy 4 Wowie s \preouy inf he tu 4 PLANTING AND CULTURAL DIRECTIONS IMPORTANT—Open your package of roots immediately when they arrive. Plant as soon as possible but if you have to wait a few days, either keep moist in open box in cool cellar, or better yet, bury in garden. Plant Ponies in good, well drained soil, in full sun if possible, and away from trees, buildings, ete. Do not plant where a peony has been before, unless all old soil is taken out and replaced with fresh. Plant 3 to 4 feet apart; set so that the eyes point upward and are 2 to 2 inches below the top of ground (very important). Give each root 2 quarts of water when planted, and then make a 6 inch mound of dirt above ground level to prevent heaving, scrape mound away late next spring. Give each peony from ten to fifteen square feet of space. Do not crowd smaller perennials among them unless extra room is given, Cultivation—Only shallow cultivation is needed, to keep down weeds and grass. Use fertilizers sparingly, bone meal one year, hard wood ashes the next, two handfuls per large plant worked in topsoil six inches from the stems. The use of animal fertilizer is dangerous, as the bacteria of decay which makes it valuable, may also in time attack the Peony root and cause a damaging rot. The use of balanced commercial fertilizers is not recommended as a general practice, as they contain too much nitrogen. If soil is naturally very poor, sandy or gravelly, commercial fer- tilizer may be used sparingly, take care to apply it when ground is wet, and watering enough to prevent burning. Keep it away from the stems. Watering during dry summers, and just before blooming is beneficial. Give a thorough soaking with two gallons or more of water once every week or ten days, not oftener. Daily watering or sprinkling is injurious. After October Ist, cut off all foliage close to the ground, and burn at once. This is the best preventive measure against blight, and usually the only one necessary. Should blight appear in spring, before blooming, pinch out and burn all di- seased tissue at once, and spray with Bordeaux mixture three fourths the usual strength, wetting the ground also at base of plant. As a preventive, spray when plants are six inches tall, again at 15 inches. Blooms—To obtain large blooms, remove all side buds when they are the size of small hazelnuts. To obtain a fine cluster, pinch out the large center bud. Blooms cut before half open and brought indoors will show finer color and last longer than blooms left on the plant or cut when fully open. When cutting blooms, let two or three leaves remain on every stub of the stalks. Do not cut more than half or two-thirds of the blooms. To promote root growth cut no leaves on 1 and 2 year plants, but remove the flower head as soon as it dies. Color on young plants is often lighter than normal, due to shock of moving. Plant the healthy, fresh dug, Auten roots, follow above directions carefully, and you should have many years of pleasure from your Peonies. —EDWARD AUTEN, JR., Princeville, Ill. 15 If you live as far south as St. Louis, we suggest that you choose mostly from early doubles, also from all singles and Japanese type. STANDARD LIST Varieties from Other Originators These are all very fine kinds. You may order any of them and be sure of something good. DOUBLE PEONIES Baroness Schroeder Late flesh white, fragrant.......... $ 1.00 Dianas~ Laterwhiter finery sree ccc e ree eee can tee octet 2.00 Dr. Brethour Very large late white, very fine.......... 3.00 Elsa Sass One of the very finest whites...............00 3.00 Evening Star Late white, extra fine... ccccceeeeeees 2.50 Hans P. Sass’. Blush white, very large late.................. 2.00 Hespanola Deep orchid pink, fragrant...................... 1.25 Karl Rosenfield Large red, midseason, fine plant 1.00 Kelway’s Glorious Very large fragrant white.......... 2.00 Lillian Gumm_ Large deep pink, late midseason........ 1.50 Longfellow Very brilliant red, tall, midseason........ 1.25 Loren? Franklin — Uate Géepepink se .stecrseceoectexe: cteceeste sees 2.00 Majestic Deep pink, large full bloom........................ 3.00 Martha Bulloch Dark pink, large, late, fragrant...... 2.00 Minuet] bight, pink, every Warcelateiscssr-asterncseeness- 2.50 Mme Emile Debatene Fine deep pink, midsason 2.00 Mons. Jules Elie Large deep pink, early.................... 1.00 Mons Martin Cahuzac Darkest red, early, semi- GOuUD] e Wesson ae eadeuestac eres ak te tune eee 2.50 Mrs. J.-H. Neeley.