Florall awards autumn 2024
During the edition of tuesday 20th of August 2024, a professional jury assessed 15 new cultivars and 1 sales or marketing concepts.
Gold went to Leycesteria formosa 'Little lanterns' by Willy De Nolf. Silver went to Heptacodium miconioides 'Temple of Bloom', another entry by Willy De Nolf. Bronze went to Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Yellow teddy Bear' from Boomkwekerij Schrauwen-Moerings (a submission from GrootGroenPlus).
Gold
Pearl of the Awards: Hydrangea paniculata ‘Bobo’ - Best Select
On the occasion of this anniversary, Hydrangea paniculata 'Bobo' from Best Select was selected from all previously awarded cultivars as the 'Pearl of the Awards'. Awarded Gold in August 2010, Bobo has fulfilled its potential as an award-winning novelty. Hundreds of thousands of Bobos are now sold worldwide every year, with over six million sold since its launch. Kristiaan Van Laecke (ILVO) and Lucas De Nolf (President Best Select) received the trophy during the closing event.
Gold
Concept ‘Ghent Azalea Young Stars’, Geert en Marijke De Waele – Reynvoet
With a group of fresh young girls – friends from their daughter Hanne – they give each cultivar its own unique face. Hanne already had a new variety named after her: ‘Hanne de Lo’, a sport from ‘Linde de Lo’ by breeders Marc and Jeroen Drieghe. The jury appreciated the decision to feature Flemish girls instead of professional models, which further emphasizes the natural beauty of azaleas.. The initiative also successfully highlights the recognition of the Ghent azalea by the EU in 2010 as the first non-edible regional product.
Gold
Variety: Leycesteria formosa ‘Little lanterns’ - Willy De Nolf
The jury finds this new cultivar of a very old garden plant very attractive with its vibrant flowers and distinctive leaf colour. It is attractive to bees and birds. The plant tolerates pruning perfectly, even by non-experts. It is a very healthy plant with a charming appearance, thriving not only in the garden but also in a pot, flower box, on the balcony or terrace. Moreover, it is suitable for planting in groups in public green areas.
Silver
Variety: Heptacodium miconioides ‘Temple of Bloom’ - Willy De Nolf.
In winter this tree stands out thanks to multiple trunks, on which the peeling bark provides an extra visual effect. It’s an early bloomer, with leaves appearing as early as the end of March and lasting until December. It is one of the few plants that flowers in the summer, from August to the end of November.
Bronze
Variety: Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Yellow teddy Bear’ - Boomkwekerij Schrauwen-Moerings (inzending via GrootGroenPlus)
This mutant of ‘Teddy Bear’ is a slow grower that requires little pruning, though it tolerates pruning well. The colour of the scales is striking. The plant can withstand drought well and adds structure to a rock garden, where it can be perfectly combined with flowering plants. It is a versatile plant that also does well on the patio, in a pot, and is suitable for small gardens.