New plants premiering at Ellerslie | Canterbury News | Local News in Canterbury

A premiere of a 'leafy' kind at the Ellerslie International Flower Show will include a new plant  that organisers say should make Christchurch people feel even more a part of the event.that should make Christchurch people feel even more a part of this world class event.

The Alstroemeria 'Rock & Roll' will line up alongside thirteen other stunning plants in "Show Offs"; a selection of plants new to the garden scene, presented by Go Gardening (the "public face" of the Nursery and Garden Industry Association).

Christchurch-based Nursery & Garden Industry Association (NGIA) president and Zealandia Horticulture Managing Director, Vince Wylaars, said there will be something for everyone.

"From the spectacular Cordyline 'Cha Cha' with foliage that changes colour as it grows, through to the beautiful purple leafed 'Mabel' nectarine tree, these new plants will appeal to a wide range of visitors to Ellerslie. Of course," he added, "the spectacular Alstroemeria 'Rock & Roll' has taken on a new meaning this year and it is perfect for picking and will strike a pose in any vase."

Mr Wylaars said the 'Bumble Bee' Petunia was particularly unusual and should attract a great deal of interest.

"It's just so different. In a pot it looks especially dramatic and eye catching."

The NGIA president also highlighted the Scabiosa 'Crimson Clouds' with pin cushion flowers which are stunning, and the Coprosmo 'Inferno' with glossy, evergreen foliage and bright red, burgundy, gold and dark green foliage.

"We are always looking for new and exciting plants to present to the public, NGIA nurserymen and retailers have definitely achieved that this year," he said.

The fourteen "Show Offs" will be on display and can be purchased from Go Gardening retailers. 

NGIA's Vince Wylaars says that with the Ellerslie International Flower Show cancelled following the February earthquakes in 2011, perhaps the 'Rock & Roll' will be the big hit this year at the show which runs from March 7-11, 2012.