Recently, people in Shenzhen have been surprised by the stretch of pink flowers along Shennan Avenue. Some notice the color in passing during the morning rush; others see it more clearly on an evening walk. Either way, it brings a bright spot to a season that's usually muted, and it has become a common sight in local social media posts.
The display isn't accidental. It was planned as part of the city's preparations for the 15th National Games.
© PanAmerican Seed
The flowers are Petunia 'Dream' series Pink Vein, a variety appearing at this scale in China for the first time. Bred by PanAmerican Seed and planted under the guidance of the Shenzhen Urban Greenery Management Department with work done by Luyuanfang Landscape, the installation has added a new visual marker to the avenue.
© PanAmerican Seed
A big part of its appeal is simple: the plants fill out the space well, and the large pink blooms create a soft, continuous layer of color. The darker lines running through the petals stand out when the light hits them, and from a distance the whole stretch reads like a long, low carpet of flowers. Many people stop to take photos.
© PanAmerican Seed
The plants also hold up well in Shenzhen's fall and winter weather. Warm days, cooler nights, and sudden rain are common, and these flowers were chosen because they stay intact through heat and recover quickly after rain.
© PanAmerican Seed
Walking along Shennan Avenue now, you move through long sweeps of pink, and every so often there's a light scent in the air. It makes the street feel a little different, even if you're only passing through on your way somewhere else.
© PanAmerican Seed
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