Suntory Flowers Receives Horticulture Innovation Award

On Aug. 15, Suntory Flowers Ltd. received the Horticulture Innovation Award from the International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS), during the organization’s general assembly.

The event took place in conjunction with the International Horticultural Congress in Istanbul, Turkey, drawing 1,800 representatives from 89 countries.

This award is the highest recognition granted by the ISHS Council to a person or institution for an exceptional contribution to horticulture innovation. The award is especially addressed to those with innovative ideas to create new products and services seen as important landmarks in the progress of horticulture at international level.

Representing Suntory Flowers were Yasunori Yomo, director of research, development and production, and breeder Masahiro Yamada. The award was presented by ISHS president Roderick Drew. This was the first time a flower breeding company received the award.

Based in Japan, Suntory Flowers has created new global markets with breakthrough breeding that has revolutionized floriculture in the bedding plant, blooming potted and cut floral segments.

Some of the company’s innovative products over the last 30 years include Surfinia petunias, Million Bells calibrachoas, Sun Parasol Mandevillas, Princettia euphorbias, Blue Rose Applause and Moon carnations.

Beyond breeding, Suntory Flowers is known for its brand marketing and vegetative propagation, using cutting edge technology to keep plants virus free and maximize yields.

The International Society for Horticultural Science is a truly global network comprising over 60,000 individuals, universities, governments, institutions, libraries and commercial companies. The aim of the ISHS is to promote and encourage research and education in all branches of horticultural science and to facilitate cooperation and knowledge transfer on a global scale through its symposia and congresses, publications and scientific structure.

For more information, visit www.ishs.org and suntoryflowers.com.