For the seventh time, the Show Your Colours Awards at this year’s IPM in Essen honored plants and plant concepts that particularly highlight the added value of a plant through comprehensive storytelling, including labels, pots, and more. This year, first place was awarded to Hydrangea paniculata ‘Groundbreaker® Blush™’. This panicle hydrangea was bred in the Netherlands by hydrangea specialist Alex Schoemaker from Boskoop. Sebastian Heinje, who cultivates ‘Groundbreaker® Blush™’ at his Heinje nursery, submitted it for the Show Your Colours Awards.
‘Groundbreaker®’ stands out due to its compact and low growth habit, reaching a maximum height of just 30 cm, making it the first groundcover hydrangea in the world. The first variety, Blush™, starts blooming in July, with flowers that change color throughout the summer—from white to soft pink, finally reaching a vibrant pink by September. With a flowering period of up to 100 days, ‘Groundbreaker®’ provides long-lasting visual appeal. Additionally, this groundcover hydrangea is extremely hardy, withstanding temperatures as low as -30°C.
In the professional trade, a strikingly printed pot with a matching label, as well as banners highlighting the plant’s unique characteristics, ensure high visibility. Moreover, additional modern promotional materials in an appealing corporate design are available.
The outstanding qualities of the plant and its well-thought-out concept have now been rewarded with first place in the prestigious Show Your Colours Awards. ‘Groundbreaker® Blush™’ prevailed against ten other nominated plants. The final decision was based on the evaluation of an expert jury and the votes of trade fair visitors.