New Ornamentals

The Working Group New Ornamentals brings together a global network of scientists, breeders, educators, and industry professionals dedicated to the exploration, development, and sustainable utilization of new ornamental plants. With more than 500 members from 77 countries, the group represents a dynamic community committed to expanding the diversity, resilience, and aesthetic value of ornamental horticulture worldwide.

Established in 1988, following its first symposium in Faaborg, Denmark, the Working Group has continually promoted international collaboration and scientific exchange. Since then, many international symposia have been organized under the auspices of the Division Ornamental Plants, providing a platform to discuss breeding, physiology, propagation, cultivation, postharvest quality, and conservation of ornamental species with potential for floriculture and landscape use.

The Working Group focuses on a wide range of topics reflecting the evolving needs and challenges of ornamental plant research and production. These include:

• sustainable use of biodiversity and native flora for floriculture and landscape design,
• breeding, genetics, and biotechnology of new ornamentals,
• propagation techniques and innovative production systems,
• physiology, protection, and postharvest handling,
• conservation and utilization of genetic resources for ecological services and urban greening.

Through its scientific activities and regular symposia, Working Group New Ornamentals fosters interdisciplinary collaboration to address issues such as global climate change, environmental sustainability, and the integration of ornamental plants into urban and natural ecosystems. The group encourages the responsible domestication of wild species and promotes the creation of new cultivars adapted to diverse climates, markets, and aesthetic trends.

By connecting researchers, students, and professionals across continents, the Working Group New Ornamentals plays a vital role in driving innovation and sustainability in ornamental horticulture. Its mission is to strengthen the global exchange of knowledge, support cutting-edge research, and contribute to the diversification and long-term growth of the ornamental plant industry.