March 21, 2026

Strong plant genetics showcased at the CAST’26 Ball Horticultural stop

New ornamental plant varieties from Ball Horticultural companies are being highlighted at the California Spring Trials, offering greenhouse growers options with improved production traits and garden performance.

2 minute read

For 2026, strong has become the common theme throughout these new variety introductions from Darwin Perennials, PanAmerican Seed, Ball FloraPlant and Selecta One. From stronger stems for less breakage to strong root systems for healthier plants, Ball’s new genetics are continuing to answer the need for easy to produce plants that stay strong through retail and into the consumers garden.

Hemerocallis DayScape series (Darwin Perennials)

An outstanding new garden daylily series, DayScape blooms (shown above is ‘DayScape Coral Blaze’) multiple times during the season and is among the earliest to bloom in spring. Plants have proven strong resistance to diseases and insects. The series launches with nine colors to choose from.

Sedum ‘Spectacular’ (PanAmerican Seed)

A seed alternative to vegetative S. spectabile with a more compact habit and sturdy flower clusters. ‘Spectacular’ has strong stems and less breakage, making this sedum perfect for smaller spaces. Supply is more programmable and flexible with seed plus good plug quality, seeding uniformity and a convenient multi-pellet seed form.

pink sedum plant flowering in the landscape
Sedum ‘Spectacular’

Petchoa CitraNova series (Ball FloraPlant)

Combining the best attributes of petunia and calibrachoa, CitraNova petchoa have large flowers in vibrant colors and a strong root system. CitraNova creates full hanging baskets and bountiful patio pots. Plants have a semi-mounded and spreading habit so containers are covered with blooms that last longer into the summer season.

Petchoa CitraNova series (Ball FloraPlant)
Petchoa ‘CitraNova Lemon Zest’

Dahlia City Lights Compact series (Selecta One)

A new series size enhances the City Lights assortment. City Lights is known for its dark foliage, which contrasts beautifully with its bright floral blooms; this series is more compact. The flowers are a magnet for butterflies and birds, and the plants are a well-branched garden powerhouse.

dark magenta dahlia flower
Dahlia ‘City Lights Compact Magenta’