Speciality crops on a charm offensive

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Parthenocissus

Browallia

Clerodendrum

Aeschynanathus

Jasminum

Chirita

Hydrangea

Rhoicissus

Primula

Rosa

Begonia

Speciality crops, which are often plants with a particular characteristic, function or use, help to preserve the depth and versatility of the range and thereby focus on the many possibilities that plants provide.

Parthenocissus or Virginia creeper is a ‘distinguished’ member of the group of climbing plants in the vine family. The plant, which is intended for indoor use, has small, fine, serrated leaves, and is suitable for both hanging baskets or for climbing on stands or frames. Virginia creeper originates from the temperate areas of Asia and North America, and thrives best in a bright spot.

Browallia speciosa is a charming and floriferous plant that can be used indoors or outdoors. It has fresh green leaves and delightful star-shaped flowers in white or blue-violet hues. Browallia originates in hot and humid Columbia, and therefore loves warmth. In the cool spring months it is suitable for conservatories, but will thrive outdoors in summer, where it will continue to flower.

Clerodendrum ugandense or Butterfly plant is a lush and graceful climbing plant. Its fine blue and white flowers, which resemble butterflies, have given the plant its sweet, summery popular name, and as it is suitable for cultivation both indoors and outdoors in pots, the chances are quite good that it will indeed be visited by a butterfly.

Aeschynanthus encompasses a series of exciting plants that match the modern home style. The plants, which are compact and evergreen with beautiful glossy leaves in various shapes, have many applications in the home, such as in small green oases that will bring life and joy to the modern, busy consumer in a simple way.

Jasminum polyanthum or Pink jasmine is the epitome of nature’s own perfume. Jasmine spreads a beautiful, intense scent throughout the home, and is also a climbing plant that can grow on a frame or stand. As an extra benefit, jasmine can be enjoyed indoors, and then be planted out when the danger of frost is gone.

Chirita tamiana, a plant that is still relatively unknown, is much more immediately recognisable when it is described as an elegant ‘cousin’ of Saintpaulia. Chirita, which originates in northern Vietnam, has charming white flowers with a touch of purple, and is also very decorative without flowers, with its rosette of small, fresh, round green leaves. What’s more, it is easy to look after.

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Avantgarde’. Hot, hotter... hydrangea – it could hardly be put more clearly. Fashionable and sculptural hydrangea with its amazing, over-sized flower heads in 21 cm pots will adorn any space indoors or outdoors – for example the hallway, the living-room floor, or cosy, sheltered spots on the terrace. The plant is decorative for up to three months, with exciting colour changes along the way from white to lime green, and from pale pink to antique green and Bordeaux.

Rhoicissus digitata or Baboon grape forms small red beads that are reminiscent of grapes. Tendrils on the underside of the leaves help the plant to adhere. Rhoicissus digitata can be tied and trimmed as necessary. The plant tolerates slight drying out.

Primula malacoides or fairy primrose is a charming plant with layered screens of flowers over spring-green leaves. Flowers galore in white, red, pink and delicate purple shades provide the plant with a refreshing look. Primula malacoides can be can be planted out when the risk of night frost is past.

Long-lasting, exclusive and with extra-large flowers pot rose in 15 cm. It has dark, glossy leaves and is ideal for the modern home.

Begonia rex covers a vast range of different varieties, all characterized by fascinating leaves that freshen up an interior. Diversity and contrast in the shape, colour and structure of the leaves are other special features. Begonia Rex also livens up the pots of summer.

Facts:
The purpose of the exhibitions of speciality crops is to highlight some of the exciting cultures that are produced only in limited numbers, but which help to make the overall range both wide and interesting.
The initiative takes the form of four special exhibitions at national and international fairs, at each of which ten speciality crops of the current season are shown. The crops are presented with their own special stories in words and pictures.
The next special exhibitions will be at: Nordic Flower Expo, 13-15 April in Malmö, Sweden.