Jul 1, 2025
PDSI unveils 2026 plant varieties at Cultivate

Plant Development Services Inc. (PDSI) will introduce a selection of new ornamental plant varieties at Cultivate 2025, featuring compact forms, expanded color options and garden performance suited for small-space landscapes and container gardening.

New plants launching for 2026 include the ‘Autumn Velvet Encore’ azalea, described as the darkest reblooming azalea available. It reaches 4 feet in height and width and is hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 10.

Also debuting is ‘Purple Charm’ loropetalum, a compact variety with dark purple foliage and red fringe-like flowers, suitable for USDA Zones 7 to 10. ‘Blast from the Pastel’ hydrangea, with large panicles and muted pink or blue blooms, will be available for Zones 5 to 9.

Blooming hydrangeas in front of a porch with two chairs — ‘Blast from the Pastel’ hydrangea. Photo courtesy of Southern Living Plant Collection and Sunset Plant Collection.

Tropical Paradise colocasia from the Royal Hawaiian line offers green foliage with speckled and white markings, adapted for container use and tropical borders in Zones 7b to 11.

“Our newest introductions give gardeners and designers a fresh palette to work with and expand our capacity for expression in the garden,” said Kip McConnell, business development director with PDSI.

In addition to product launches, PDSI will host two educational sessions focused on digital marketing strategies. “Translating Social Media Trends” will take place Sunday, July 13 from 2:45 to 3:45 p.m. in Room A113. “Social Media Summer Camp” is scheduled for Monday, July 14 from 3 to 4 p.m. in Room A210.

The sessions aim to help green industry professionals create engaging content and improve their online presence.

Visit Booth #3059 at Cultivate’25 to see these varieties in living color and discover how PDSI continues to shape the future of modern landscapes. For more information, contact Corrina Murray at corrina@plantdevelopment.com.