The largest innovation and networking event for the green industry in Switzerland has taken place in Koppigen. Over 400 exhibitors have shown the specialist audience the innovative power of the green sector, both in terms of machinery and technology and new plants. Four plants were awarded the “Best New Plants” ÖGA-Awards this year. 

This year, the industry witnessed the remarkable success of the new Delosperma Desert Dancers Purple ('FSDD2117'PBR) and Red ('FSDD2112'PBR) by Koichiro Nishikawa of Florsaika Breeding, represented by Plantipp. Since its introduction, this series has been a standout, winning numerous awards and now adding the “New Plants” award at ÖGA to its list of accolades.  

The jury noted that “The ice plant (Delosperma) "Desert Dancers" is an enrichment among the extremely heat-tolerant plants. Florsaika Breeding has succeeded in bringing a red-leaved ice plant with a long flowering period onto the market for the first time, which meets the need for climate-resilient plants.” 

The well-known breeder Koichiro Nishikawa has achieved a real breakthrough with Delosperma Desert Dancers. The intensely dark-coloured foliage is unique among ice plants and stands out from all known varieties. From early summer, the plants are completely covered with flowers. Desert Dancers are easy to care for, heat—and drought-tolerant, and a great eye-catcher in containers, hanging baskets, and borders.