Taking place in Boskoop, The Netherlands the Plantarium|Groen-Direkt’s Autumn trade show features exhibits from some 200 exhibitors and attracts over 7500 thousands of visitors from the Netherlands and abroad.
Part of the show, the Green Retail Awards aim to celebrate innovation and excellence. Entries are judged by a jury of European retail chain representatives, which this year included, Michael Perry.
Out of 49 entries, the Best Market Innovation Award was presented to Buddleja davidii Little Rockstars® and the new variety, Buddleja davidii ‘Botex 009’ (Little Rockstars Red) was awarded the Best Novelty Award, winning from some 35 entries.
Plants nominated for the Best Market Innovation category are judged on aspects such as shelf life, availability, sustainability and compliance with current market demands. The Best Novelty Award, judged by the Royal Boskoop Horticultural Society (KVBC), looks to reward new introductions based on added value, flower colour, flowering time and period, leaf colour, shape of the plant, health and propagation.
Both winning entries are from an intriguing new series of ultra-compact butterfly bushes. Buddleja davidii Little Rockstars® have a rounded growth habit and promise abundant flowering from summer through autumn. Due to their size, these new Buddlejas are ideal for containers, mixed planters, or the front of borders. Available in five colours, they attract bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity. According to breeder, they are tolerant of heat and drought, making them especially suited to urban environments and changing climate conditions. Low-maintenance yet high in ornamental value, they offer performance with minimal care. Buddleja davidii Little Rockstars® was bred by Botanic Experience, submitted by Florensis B.V., and will be managed by the Plantipp B.V. agency.
Part of the Little Rockstars® series, Buddleja davidii ‘Botex 009’ (Little Rockstars Red) has deep reddish-pink flowers. The new variety is said to bloom profusely from July to October and its compact, rounded growth habit makes suitable for planting in containers on balconies, or for small sized gardens. This particular Buddleja was also awarded the Gold Royal Boskoop Horticultural Society (KVBC) Medal. The jury praised its compact growth, profuse flowering, and intense dark red blooms – qualities that make Little Rockstars Red a valuable addition to the range.
