A midseason Japanese-form lactiflora with deep carmine red guard petals surrounding a soft cream center and lighter carmine petaloids. Flowers typically carry two to three buds per stem, extending the display, and are pleasantly fragrant. On mature plants, the center often develops fuller, bomb-type petaloids, adding substance and interest to the bloom.
Plants are compact and sturdy, reaching about 26 inches, with strong stems that hold the flowers upright without support. Foliage is healthy and long-lasting, contributing to a tidy, dependable garden presence.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Tom Cat combines strong stems, good bud count, and an evolving flower form that improves with age. It’s an underappreciated cultivar with excellent vigor and reliable midseason performance—well worth a second look.
