Apr 25, 2017

Crazy for Coral By Jasmina Dolce

Now that the 2017 California Spring Trials is over, it’s time to review all the photos and notes we took so we can report everything you need to know for your upcoming season. The new variety introductions are the star of the show, but there’s so much more information to absorb and take into consideration when planning production.

Each year has its big trends. In the past, we’ve seen an explosion in mixed combinations, especially those mixing plants we don’t normally see together. Other popular trends we’ve seen in years past have been a resurgence in underutilized perennials and a focus on drought-tolerant plants.

This year is definitely no different. There were lots of recurring themes as we traveled along the coast. One that comes to mind today as I flip through my photos is the color coral. Hues of salmon to peach to orange were everywhere. It’s really no surprise. Coral is such an uplifting color that presents a gorgeous contrast to foliage.

Nearly every stop along the coast showcased multiple new varieties in the coral family. I certainly can’t share them all with you right now. But I’ve picked a few of my favorites.

Calibrachoa ‘Conga Sunset Kiss’
Ball FloraPlant

Lewisia ‘Constant Coral’
Terra Nova Nurseries

Petunia ‘Trilogy Mango’
American Takii

Canna ‘Toucan Coral’
Proven Winners

New Guinea impatiens ‘Tamarindo Wild Salmon’
Dümmen Orange

Begonia ‘RiseUp Coral Reef’
Westhoff

Have you seen a rise in demand of coral-colored plants? Did you attend the Spring Trials; did you happen to come across any noteworthy trends? If so, shoot me an email and let me know your thoughts. I’d love to hear from you.

— Jasmina