On April 20, Dutch chrysanthemum breeder Dekker Chrysanten presented 'Kiku Nova,' a completely new type of chrysanthemum characterized by its palmate-shaped inflorescence, the plurality of flowers per branch, and its long stem length of 90 centimeters. "It is a true breakthrough within the world of chrysanthemums." The highlight of the afternoon was the unveiling of Geisha, the first variety from the Kiku Nova segment that will be marketed by Dekker Chrysanten itself in week 18.
"That innovation is a high priority at Dekker Chrysanten has been proven over the years. With introductions of pioneering varieties such as Euro, Kennedy, Altaj, and Topspin, or the more recently introduced varieties AAA Peptalk and AAA Bowie, we have visibly made our mark on the chrysanthemum world. Yesterday afternoon, we presented another breakthrough within the world of chrysanthemums with the introduction of Kiku Nova."
A completely new segment within the chrysanthemum family
With Kiku Nova, Dekker Chrysanten introduces an entirely new type of chrysanthemum. "Kiku Nova, which literally means "new chrysanthemum," stands for a complete segment characterized by a palmate shaped inflorescence, a multitude of flowers per branch, and a stem length of 90 centimeters." This is the breeder's response to the increasing demand for flower types that are suitable for the so-called field bouquet, among other things.
Klaas Meijer, buyer at Agora Group.
Geisha
Simultaneously with the presentation of Kiku Nova as an entire segment, the first Kiku Nova variety was shown to an exclusive group of traders. "This variety, which will be marketed under the name Geisha, is a white, single-flowered variety that is perfectly suitable for coloring." Geisha will be supplied by the breeder itself at the auctions of Royal FloraHolland Aalsmeer, Naaldwijk, and Rijnsburg as of week 18. "In particular, the palmate-shaped inflorescence and its excellent suitability for coloring were received very positively by trade parties that were present at the event."
Japanse atmosphere.
Japanse 'roots'
As the decoration of the VIP event, yesterday made abundantly clear, Kiku Nova is closely linked to Japanese culture. "First of all, 'Kiku' is the Japanese translation for chrysanthemum, but Kiku Nova's entire brand style also exudes Oriental culture. The colors used are the recognizable white and red of the Japanese flag, and every Kiku Nova statement features a Japanese Geisha. Kiku Nova's logo also refers to an 'Inkan,' a specific stamp that is used by Japanese people to sign official documents according to centuries-old customs. Similarly, with Kiku Nova, the florist will be able to put his or her own stamp on each floral arrangement."
Teunis Veenema presents the product.
A welcome addition
During the event, Amsterdam-based flower stylist Teunis Veenema presented a number of floral works in which Geisha played the leading role. Teunis, who is a household name in the field of progressive floral arrangements, described Kiku Nova as a very welcome addition to the existing chrysanthemum assortment. Thanks precisely to its palmate-shaped inflorescence, Kiku Nova provides an answer to the demand for flowers used in today's bouquets, such as the field bouquet.
Facing the future with confidence
Despite the positive reaction from the trading companies, the market will undoubtedly have to get used to this surprising innovation. The coming period will therefore focus on promoting Kiku Nova as a new segment within the chrysanthemum family. "Not only towards trading parties but also certainly towards the global florist. However, with the positive reactions from the selective company that was allowed to see the new type of chrysanthemum, Dekker Chrysanten is confident about the future of Kiku Nova."
For more information:
Dekker Chrysanten
www.dekkerchrysanten.com
For more information about the Kiku Nova: www.kikunova.nl