‘Glow Sticks’ fescue wins Farwest Show’s New Varieties Showcase award

‘Glow Sticks’ fescue (Festuca arundinacea ‘Glow Sticks’ PP34648) was named Best in Show in the 2025 Farwest Show’s New Varieties Showcase.

Discovered by Jeremy Schmidt and introduced by Bristol Briar, the ornamental grass is available from Briggs Nursery during the show. It was one of 33 new plant selections displayed at the event.

“New plant introductions are the lifeblood of the nursery industry, bringing forth new ideas, inspiration and even functionality,” said Jamie Moore, event coordinator for the Oregon Association of Nurseries, which produces the show. “Our judges were impressed with the quality and variety of new plants on display at Farwest.”

‘Glow Sticks’ fescue was submitted by Concept Plants. It features bright yellow flower spikelets that contrast with dark green blades, maintains color year-round and is tolerant of heat and drought. The grass grows to 24 inches wide and 36 inches tall and is hardy in zones 3a to 9b.

Awards of Merit went to:

‘Summerina Firana’ echibecka (ET RDB 751 PP34593) was hybridized in the Netherlands by Bart Noordhuis of Exceptio B.V. and introduced by Exceptio B.V. ; submitted by Pacific Plug & Liner.

Hydrangea paniculata ‘HYLV19557’ (PPAF, CPBRAF) — Hybridized in The Netherlands by Lendert de Vos; introduced and submitted by Bloomin’ Easy Plants.

Daphne ‘Perfume Princess White’ (Daphne odora ‘Daplur2’ PP30790) — Bred by Mark Jury and Anthony Tesselaar, introduced by Anthony Tesselaar Plants and submitted by Briggs Nursery.

Photos courtesy of  Farwest Show/ Oregon Association of Nurseries.