Gold

Variety: Cercis canadensis ‘Zigzag’ - D&V plant

As its name suggests, the most striking feature of this novelty is its zigzag-shaped branches. The jury regarded this as a strong distinguishing characteristic: “Only a few other shrubs possess this feature. It contributes significantly to the plant's year-round appeal. The flowers, which also bloom on old wood, the autumn foliage colours and the seed pods are additional assets.” According to the jury, this shrub can be showcased effectively close to a terrace or balcony, but also from a distance, for example with subtle lighting that accentuates the unique structure of its branches.
The plant is frost-hardy and drought-tolerant: “This plant is sure to stand out in garden centres and will invite customers to take it home.”

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Silver

Variety: Lagerstroemia indica ‘Dancing Angel’ - a.Sierplant.be

The jury highlighted the plant's attractive structure and compact growth habit, which requires minimal pruning. It belongs to a species that is increasingly popular in garden design.
Its flowering habit is distinctive, as is its colour. It flowers relatively late, making it particularly eye-catching in garden centres. Retailers can use it to extend the sales season.”
This variety also performs well during cooler summers, while remaining drought-tolerant and winter-hardy. In addition, it retains a more compact habit than many other varieties.
The jury described it as an improved version of the lilac, but with a later flowering period. In the Dutch language Lagerstroemia is also commonly known as ‘Indian lilac’.

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Bronze

Variety: Escallonia Trulli® ‘Ilvotrul’ - Willy De Nolf

The jury praised this abundantly flowering and versatile plant, which can easily be pruned into the desired shape.
It flowers from June through August and continues to provide ornamental value throughout the rest of the season thanks to its attractive foliage.
This variety was developed by ILVO as part of a breeding programme aimed at creating more compact and winter-hardy ornamental shrubs.

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Gold

Concept: Breathe Nature (Lets Hang Out Together)’ - Handelskwekerij De Mol-Verlee

This cardboard protective sleeve, designed as packaging for multiple plants, aims to reduce the use of plastic packaging. The jury was immediately impressed by the attractive appearance of the box and quickly recognised its practical advantages: “The tray at the bottom is a useful feature, as it enables the plants to retain water for some time while moving through the supply chain. Moreover, it is a sturdy box that prevents the plants from falling through the bottom of the box.”
Using the QR code, customers can access the Breathe Nature website, which offers numerous practical tips. According to the jury, the website complements rather than competes with the retailer's communication efforts. The jury considers the concept an excellent way to highlight the air-purifying qualities of hanging plants.

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Gold

Publieksprijs: Lagerstroemia indica ‘Dancing Angel’ - a.Sierplant.be

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