Fleuroselect announces its 2026 Gold Medal winners

The winners of the 2026 Fleuroselect Gold Medal were announced during a livestream event on 14 January. Takii Europe’s Dahlia pinnata ‘Black Forest Ruby’ and  Salvia splendens Estella Coral from Van Hemert & Co obtained an outstanding score on innovation, beauty and garden performance, convincing the organisation’s expert judges to award the coveted Gold Medal.

Dahlia pinnata ‘Black Forest Ruby’

Breeder: Takii Europe

Dahlia pinnata ‘Black Forest Ruby’.

It is claimed that Dahlias have become increasingly popular over the past few years due to their stunning variety, impressive flower shapes and captivating colours. Fully in line with the current movement, Takii Europe introduces Black Forest Ruby, a seed-raised Dahlia. This breeding breakthrough displays  single to double flowers in different shades of red, ranging from scarlet to wine. The blooms contrast beautifully to the dark pinnata leaves.

Black Forest Ruby is suited for a combo container but also thrives in sunny beds. This new In commercial production, Dahlia ‘Black Forest Ruby’ is a uniform crop and as as such  provides growers ease in growing. In retail, the flower-leaf colour combination helps the plant standing out on the benches.

For consumers, growing Black Forest Ruby is a rewarding endeavour, and with the proper care they can enjoy its vibrant blooms continuously from summer over autumn until the first frost.

Salvia splendens Estella Coral

Breeder: Van Hemert & Co

Salvia Estella Coral.

Fitting the naturalistic landscaping and gardening trend is Salvia splendens Estella Coral, the latest breeding breakthrough from Van Hemert & Co.

This plant innovation shows a fully new habit compared to the known splendens types. Estella Coral is bigger, bushier, well-branched and therefore suitable for naturalistic plantings, large patio containers or landscaping where vigour is required.

The flower colour is new in this bushy salvia type from seed. Estella Coral’s large, rose flower spikes bloom all season long, providing colour and texture in the garden.

It is claimed that Estella Coral flowers one week earlier compared to the standard splendens varieties. Grown or planted in a sunny spot and well-drained soil, Estella Coral will produce masses of flowers and attract several types of pollinators