BOSKOOP, Netherlands: Plantarium|Groen Direkt 2022 Plantarium (24-25 August) is the ideal platform to showcase your latest innovations if you’re involved in ornamental horticulture and the gardening industry. This year’s show will host over 60 entries for Best Market Release and Best KVBC Novelty in Show Awards.
The overview below is a run-down of Plantarium’s most distinctive novelties. It’s not exhaustive – there’s a lot more to discover at this year’s show– but it gives an idea of the show’s wide-ranging appeal. Here are some of our favourites.
Best Market Release and Best KVBC Novelty
Cortaderia selloana ‘Day2’ (TINY PAMPA GOLD)
Cortaderia selloana ‘Day2’ (TINY PAMPA GOLD) is one of the shortest Cortaderias on the market. TINY PAMPA GOLD blooms abundantly, even as a one- and two-year-old plant. This Cortaderia has very compact growth and becomes about 50-60cm high, including flowers. Ideal for the smaller garden or on the terrace in a pot ‘n’ trade, the TINY PAMPA GOLD is also an asset due to its logistical possibilities. Tiny Pampa Gold is a yellow-bronze variety. Van Vliet New Plants from Stroe is the contributor of this plant, which is marketed by Hoogeveen, Gernee, Gerard Dekkers and Fleurizon. ‘Tiny Pampa Gold’ is protected under plant breeding legislation and bred by Kwekerij Daylight VOF from Boskoop.
Mangave ‘Blazing Saddles’ (MAD ABOUT MANGAVE)
Mangave ‘Blazing Saddles’ (MAD ABOUT MANGAVE) is an intergeneric hybrid and has the best of both parents: the durability and large, architectural forms of Agave, the unique colors and markings and softer spines of Manfreda. ‘Blazing Saddles’ grows to 20cm tall and 35cm wide and is a beautiful addition to the Mad about Mangave® family with its striking green leaves and bright red dots. Sometimes a leaf has so many dots that it looks like the leaves are solid red with green edges. The plant stays nicely low and compact and is marketed by F.N. Kempen and Van Son & Koot. The winner is Walters Gardens Inc. from Zeeland (USA), and protection under plant breeding legislation has been applied. Management is through Plantipp BV from IJsselstein, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase.
Physocarpus opulifolius ‘LP1’ (MAGIC BALL)
Physocarpus opulifolius ‘LP1’ (MAGIC BALL) has a compact growth habit and branches easily (even without pruning). An easy garden plant that requires no special care! MAGIC BALL sprouts in spring with light orange shoots that turn yellow, orange and red in summer. In the fall, the leaves turn bright red. MAGIC BALL also blooms in the summer with large light pink flowers. The plant is very suitable for the retail channel and the landscaping trade. The unique leaf colouration during the growing season and the large light pink flowers make this plant a great innovation for the Physocarpus assortment. The plant was bred by Leena Plant Boomkwekerijen BV from Achtmaal, and protection under plant breeding legislation has been applied. Van Vliet New Plants from Stroe has submitted the plant for inspection. Leena Plant Boomkwekerijen BV, Hoof, Hoogenraad, Verpaalen, Lodders BV and Heinje will market the plant.
Spiraea japonica ‘BB’
Spiraea japonica ‘BB’ has a leaf and flower shape unique to Spiraea. The leaves are oval-shaped and dark green in colour; the flowers are dark red. The plant grows to a maximum height of 60cm and is not susceptible to mildew. The product is available from 2023 in P9 to C3 and is very suitable for the retail channel. The plant has been bred by SAPHO from Ste Gemmes sur Loire (F) and is marketed by JC Niesing, Hoof Zevenaar and Hoogenraad. Van Vliet New Plants from Stroe has submitted the plant for inspection. Protection under plant breeding legislation has been applied.
Best Market Release
Heuchera ‘Pinky Panky’®
Heuchera ‘Pinky Panky’® is a compact Heuchera that has a spectacularly different leaf colour compared to the existing assortment due to the mix of colours. It is a good growing, floriferous Heuchera with many pink flowers. The plant is suitable for wholesale and retail and is sufficiently available from various growers for the trade channel. The submitter is young plant company Denis-Plants BV from Lochristi (B).
Concept: Eco2Grass, Plant: Miscanthus Eco2Grass
Elephant grass is one of the most beautiful and largest grasses. The handsome-looking crop is great for wind and sound protection. The sturdy stems and long slender leaves of this perennial grow extremely fast. The grass requires hardly any maintenance and naturally stores an exceptional amount of CO2. De Jong Plant bv from Boskoop adds an extra dimension to this with their Miscanthus ECO2Grass® variety. Also, for consumers, a great way to reduce CO2, nitrogen (N2) and particulate matter is with a stylish garden plant for border planting or hedging. For this market, the Miscanthus is grown in a special pot. The product will be available in a P12 and P17 with a label and pot cover. The pot cover is to stimulate sales because the customer can see how the plant will become in the garden. In addition, the concept is also suitable for arable farming and municipalities. Eco2Grass distinguishes itself by:
- Six times more CO2 absorption than a forest of trees
- Natural and circular environmental solution
- Captures ammonia and fine dust from the environment
- Water purifying and soil improving
- Eco-material for bio-based products
NATURE 2 NATURE
Van Son & Koot from Kaatsheuvel says: “The overall concept NATURE 2 NATURE is a specially selected range to promote biodiversity, divided into four categories: Birds, Bees, Butterflies and Bugs. All plants (winter hardy assortment) are provided with a species-specific label with an inspirational representation of the plant. Text and image show which animals the plant attracts. The reverse side features a barcode, plant passport and text in four languages. The uniform label line gives a colourful, recognisable look to the plant and the entire concept. To convey this biodiversity theme even more clearly and inspire consumers, we offer a complete POS package with banners and displays.
“NATURE 2 NATURE is suitable for every segment (international), from garden centres to DIY stores; for both online and offline, a suitable package is developed so that the concept can be presented in any place in an appropriate way.
“It is unique and contemporary. There is a lot of attention to sustainability and biodiversity at the moment. We want to inspire everyone to make the world a greener place. And we hope to use this concept to reach consumers and encourage them to participate in making the world a greener place. The theme image is an image developed by ourselves that supports the entire concept and is depicted to inspire consumers, from young to old, to buy.
“The current strategy is to deliver in Q1. We monitor and have short lines with the customer. We continue to develop the range and innovate at the product and concept level. The same applies to availability and delivery. If it turns out that the demand is broader or different than in Q1, we will develop this further together with our customers. There is currently enough available.”
Best KVBC Novelty
Acer palmatum ‘Opstal11’ (ROYAL GARNET)
Acer palmatum ‘Opstal11’ (ROYAL GARNET) has feathered, garnet-coloured leaves that turn orange-red in the fall. The plant has a very vigorous, spreading and pendulous growth habit. ROYAL GARNET grows to 90cm in two years and to 200cm in seven years. He likes moist, well-drained soil and a place in the sun or half-shadow. He is hardy to -15ºC. The plant was bred by Ron van Opstal Holding BV from Zundert and is protected under plant breeding legislation. Tree nursery R. van Opstal will market the plant from 2022 onwards. Management is through Plantipp BV from IJsselstein, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase.
Agapanthus ‘AMDB002′ (EVERPANTHUS POPPIN’ STAR)
Agapanthus ‘AMDB002′ (EVERPANTHUS POPPIN’ STAR) is a beautiful addition to the Everpanthus® series known for its long flowering period and good reblooming. POPPIN’ STAR has full flower heads and an abundance of striped violet-blue with white flowers. Hardy to about -12°C, it grows to about 60 cm high and 70 cm wide, making it excellent for the perennial border, in a pot on the patio or in mixed containers. POPPIN’ STAR was bred by De Wet Plant Breeders from Linbro Park (ZA). The plant is marketed by BVBV Leybaert and Hoogeveen Plants BV, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase. Plantipp BV is responsible for the management
Ajuga ‘Fanfin’ (FEATHERED FRIENDS FANCY FINCH)
Ajuga ‘Fanfin’ (FEATHERED FRIENDS FANCY FINCH) has small, striking, tri-coloured leaves and beautiful blue flowers. It grows to 15cm high and 45cm wide, prefers shade to half sun and is hardy to -30°C. FANCY FINCH is part of the FEATHERED FRIENDS® series, which consists of four small-leaved and three large-leaved Ajuga with striking, unique colours. The plants bloom profusely in spring, provide year-round colour in the garden, and are much loved by butterflies and bees. FANCY FINCH is protected under plant breeding legislation and bred by Garden Solutions, LLC of Zeeland; the USA and is marketed by Mulders Sierteelt, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase. Plantipp BV is responsible for the management.
Ajuga ‘Petpar’ (FEATHERED FRIENDS PETITE PARAKEET)
Ajuga ‘Petpar’ (FEATHERED FRIENDS PETITE PARAKEET) has orange-gold leaves with prominent central leaf veins and blue flowers. It grows to 15cm high and 45cm wide, prefers shade to half sun and is hardy to -30°C. PETITE PARAKEET is part of the FEATHERED FRIENDS® series, which consists of four small-leaved and three large-leaved Ajuga with striking, unique colours. The plants bloom profusely in spring, provide year-round colour in the garden, and are well-loved by butterflies and bees. PETITE PARAKEET is breeders’ rights protected and bred by Garden Solutions, LLC of Zeeland; the USA and is marketed by Mulders Sierteelt, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase. Plantipp BV is responsible for the management.
Coreopsis grandiflora ‘MVNC1902’ (SOLAR JEWEL)
Coreopsis grandiflora ‘MVNC1902’ (SOLAR JEWEL) has bright red flowers with yellow-orange margins from June to October. The plant produces a large amount of brightly coloured flowers and thrives in full sun. The growth habit of SOLAR JEWEL is round, compact, bushy and upright. The height is 50cm and the width 45cm. The plant is hardy to -20°C. SOLAR JEWEL has high disease resistance and is part of the Coreopsis grandiflora Solar series with spectacular, perennial wildflowers. Plants in this series have a neat growth habit, maintain fresh green, healthy foliage, and are highly resistant to heat, drought and humidity. SOLAR JEWEL is protected under plant breeding legislation and bred by Van Noort Vaste Planten from Warmond, who also markets the plants. Management is through Plantipp BV from IJsselstein, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase.
Coreopsis grandiflora ‘MVNC1906’ (SOLAR MOON)
Coreopsis grandiflora ‘MVNC1906’ (SOLAR MOON) blooms from June to October with soft yellow flowers with a dark red centre. SOLAR MOON has a round, compact, bushy, upright growth habit and is not picky about soil type. The plant even tolerates poor or sandy soil! It thrives in full sun, grows 50cm high and 45cm wide and is hardy to -20°C. SOLAR MOON has high disease resistance and is part of the Coreopsis grandiflora Solar series with spectacular perennial wildflowers. The plants in this series have a neat growth habit, keep fresh green, healthy leaves, and are well resistant to heat, drought and humidity. SOLAR MOON is protected under plant breeding legislation and bred by Van Noort Vaste Planten from Warmond, who also markets the plants. Management is through Plantipp BV from IJsselstein, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase.
Cryptomeria japonica ‘Tomahawk’
Cryptomeria japonica ‘Tomahawk’ has a combination of tail-shaped branches (like Cryptomeria jap. ‘Dinger’) and cristates/combs (like Cryptomeria jap. ‘Cristata’ has, for example). The combs are reminiscent of the shape of a Tomahawk axe, hence the name ‘Tomahawk’. The plant is fresh green in colour and has a compact bush growth. The mutation was found in a Cryptomeria jap. ‘Dinger’. The plant was bred by Kwekerij Meuter from Heythuysen, who also markets it and has submitted it for the novelty contest.
Ficus carica ‘LMF01’ (LITTLE MISS FIGGY)
Ficus carica ‘LMF01’ (LITTLE MISS FIGGY) has emphatically lobed dark green leaves and short internodes. The plant produces large quantities of sweet, burgundy figs in spring and fall. It prefers dry, light soil to heavy, wet soil and can be planted in full sun or partial shade. LITTLE MISS FIGGY is the perfect plant for the edible garden, for both the smaller and larger garden and for in a pot on a balcony or terrace. Hardy to -15ºC. This plant, protected under plant breeding legislation, was produced by PDSI in Loxley (USA) and marketed by Van der Peijl Tuinplanten, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase. Plantipp BV is responsible for the management.
Leycesteria formosa ‘CDC01’ (LITTLE LANTERNS)
Leycesteria formosa ‘CDC01’ (LITTLE LANTERNS) has bright golden yellow leaves that tolerate the sun well. The plant blooms from July through September with white flowers followed by purple berries. This Leycesteria has naturally dwarf growth and branches very well. LITTLE LANTERNS grow to about 90cm high and 75cm wide and do not need to be pruned. Plant LITTLE LANTERNS in the sun or semi-shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. LITTLE LANTERNS is very suitable for any garden, the shrub border, and a pot on a terrace or balcony. Hardy to -15ºC. The plant is bred by Charles Carr from Winchester (UK) and is protected under plant breeding legislation. Fa. Luccassen Boomkwekerij is marketing the plant. Management is through Plantipp BV from IJsselstein, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase.
Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Kuperba’ (BLUE ARROW)
Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Kuperba’ (BLUE ARROW) is steeply upright, growing and vigorous. This new variety is a marked improvement on ‘Blue Spire’, which is rather disparate. The flowers of BLUE ARROW are lilac blue, and the leaves and branches are grey-green and strongly fragrant. Perovskia is called Russian sage. The plant was bred by H.J.M. Kuijf from Boskoop, who also markets the plant and has submitted it for inspection. Plant breeder’s protection has been applied for.
Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Breebay’ (BANNOW BAY)
The young leaves of Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Breebay’ (BANNOW BAY) are olive green with creamy white margins in spring and early summer. In summer, the colour changes to pink, creamy-white and green; in winter, the leaves are pink with purple. The growth habit is compact, round and bushy. After four years, BANNOW BAY is about 60cm high and 80cm wide and has a naturally round growth habit, which makes pruning almost unnecessary. The plant likes well-drained soil. In full sun, the colour of Bannow Bay comes out best, but this evergreen shrub can also be placed in the semi-shade. A perfect addition to the border, but also very suitable for topiary, hedges or in a pot on a terrace or balcony. Hardy to -10ºC. Anette and Pierce Breen (UK) are the winners of this plant, which is protected under plant breeding legislation. Tree nursery Ad Vurens brings the plant to the market and also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase. Plantipp BV is responsible for the management.
Rosa ‘GEUS1713’ (EVERGLOW RUBY)
Rosa ‘GEUS1713’ (EVERGLOW RUBY) has red flowers with a white centre. The plant is compact and branches well. EVERGLOW RUBY is, after three years, about 60-80cm high and 40-50cm wide. The plant likes a position in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil. Prune in spring and after flowering. Hardy to -18ºC. EVERGLOW RUBY is a beautiful rose that is suitable as a garden plant but also does very well on the balcony or terrace. This rose is protected under plant breeding legislation and bred by Select Breeding BV from Klazienaveen. Tree nursery R. van Opstal is marketing it. Management is through Plantipp BV from IJsselstein, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase.
Sedum telephium ‘Olek 6’ (GLOBE PINK)
Sedum telephium ‘Olek 6′ (GLOBE PINK) is a very compact growing Sedum with dark brown leaves. The flowering is rich and long with globular pink flowers. The plant is about 25 cm high. GLOBE PINK is protected by plant breeders’ legislation and was bred by AB Cultivars from Zuidwolde. Florizon Plants from Mijdrecht has submitted the plant for testing and will also market it.
Sempervivum arachnoideum ‘Belsemmag1’ (COCONUT CRYSTAL)
Sempervivum arachnoideum ‘Belsemmag1’ (COCONUT CRYSTAL) has lime green and red hues in spring, changing to a spectacular cream and wine red colour combination during the growing season. The plant grows quickly and makes a very large rosette. COCONUT CRYSTAL blooms from the end of spring through the summer and gives a lot of colour to the border as a ground cover. The plant grows to 10cm high and 15cm wide and thrives in sandy, well-drained soil in full sun or semi-shade. Hardy to -35°C. COCONUT CRYSTAL is protected under plant breeding legislation and bred by Belgicactus BV from Westerlo (BE), who also markets the plant. Management is done by Plantipp BV from IJsselstein, who also submitted the plant for the novelty showcase.
For more information and pictures of novelties, visit Novelties – PLANTARIUM|GROEN-Direkt (plantariumgroendirekt.nl
