Coleus named 2025-26 Flower of the Year in Japan

The novelty coleus Lime Edge (marketed internationally as Skeletal (‘G20057’ USPP 36481, PVR) has been named the 2025-26 Flower of the Year in Japan, one of the country’s most prestigious horticultural honors.

The award is presented by the Japan Flower Selection Association (JFSA) following a multi-stage trialing and evaluation process that recognizes standout plant varieties for performance, innovation and market appeal.

Lime Edge was entered into the JFSA competition by Hakusan (Proven Winners Japan). Bred by Rick Grazzini of Garden Genetics, coleus Skeletal was introduced to global markets through a coordinated international launch led by Kientzler GmbH and Kientzler North America, Kernock Park Plants (UK), Hayloft Plants (UK) and Plants for Europe.

The Flower of the Year designation highlights the success of this global collaboration and the growing demand for bold, distinctive garden plants.

While most garden coleus are known for their vigor and size — perfect for quickly filling landscapes and containers — Skeletal was created as a counterpoint to the traditional model. Instead of being large and dominant, it grows at a moderate pace, offering enough vigor to thrive in mixed containers without overpowering companion plants.

What sets Skeletal apart is its unique texture and form; itts deeply lobed leaves create a soft, airy look, contrasting with the broad, flat foliage of standard coleus. This design allows light and color from other plants to filter through, giving mixed containers a balanced, layered aesthetic.

Skeletal delivers a gentle, refined presence in the garden — perfect for growers and consumers seeking something fresh and distinctive.

Skeletal is produced and managed for the North American market by Kientzler North America. It is available from all young plant brokers.

Photo courtesy of Garden Genetics.