Gold Medal Plants, as explained by Joe Ziccardi of PHS, are woody plants of an exceptional nature that flourish in the Mid-Atlantic region.
To achieve Gold Medal distinction, plants must excel in areas like four season appeal, low maintenance, and reliability. Plants are nominated and evaluated by a committee of horticulturists. The panel is able to choose plants in an unbiased way as the program is sponsored by PHS and not prmoted by any growers or gardens.
For Ziccardi, the best part of having a Gold Medal tent at the Fall Garden Festival is the opportunity to raise awareness for woody plants. His favorite among this year’s selection? The Calycanthus floridus ‘Michael Lindsey’ Carolina Allspice (or just Calycanthus). The plant is native to our region and offers beautiful, fragrant blooms.
To learn more about the Gold Medal program visit the PHS site.
