Hey, flower friends. I'm fresh back from the annual Rose Show at Keukenhof, and trust me—it did not disappoint. This is always one of my favorite floral events because you get a sneak peek at some seriously stunning roses, plus insights into what's trending in the rose world, plus a real award ceremony to present the best roses of the year. So, grab a coffee, and let's talk roses! I imagine you'd want to know which roses to look out for this year.
400 Vases Filled With Gorgeous Roses
This year's show featured around 400 vases from 56 participants filled with gorgeous roses, turning Keukenhof into a rose paradise. But beyond the beauty, it's also about the competition: professional and trade juries meticulously evaluate each variety. And yes, there were some impressive winners this year. Quick hint: what a day it was for Sjaak van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij!
The categories were split up into 'Dutch' and 'Import', which makes sense since it's a competition held in the Netherlands. And then, like I already indicated, there is another division between the winners selected by a professional technical jury and by professional flower traders. Having said all that, drumroll for the winners...
Dutch Prize Winners
Winners with the Professional Jury:
First up, big applause for Sjaak van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij, who absolutely stole the show with two stand-out roses.
Rose Big Girl took home the gold in the category 'Dutch Standard Rose'. The jury couldn't get enough of its consistent bloom shape and fresh color. Honestly, it's the kind of rose you'll definitely want to feature in your next floral design.
Category 'Professional Jury - Dutch Standard Rose'.
- Rose Big Girl by Sjaak van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij
- Rose Ballerina by Sjaak van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij
- Rose Najeli by Marjoland
Another showstopper from grower Sjaak van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij was Spray Rose Royal Blush, topping the 'Dutch Spray Rose' category. Florists, take note: its subtle hues, lengthy stems, and consistent maturity make it a dream to work with. The trade jury praised its excellent branching, so it's got great potential for lush arrangements. No wonder also the second prize was won by this spray rose variety, yet from a different grower.
Category 'Professional Jury - Dutch Spray Rose'
- Spray Rose Royal Blush by Sjaak van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij
- Spray Rose Royal Blush by Kwekerij De Opstal
- Spray Rose First Dates by Decorum grower Van Seters Roses
Winners with the Trade Jury:
Van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij continued on their prize-hunting quest. They found the Trade Jury at their side when Rose Ballerina was elected as the best standard rose from the Netherlands. The jury praised this variety for its beautiful uniform vase presentation.
Category 'Trade Jury - Dutch Standard Rose'.
- Rose Ballerina by Sjaak van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij
- Rose Red Naomi! Classic by Van den Ende Roses
- Rose Sophia Loren by Berg RoseS
It did not stop there either, because Sjaak van der Hulst had a perfect score when it came to Dutch roses after this grower's Spray Rose Royal Blush also won the hearts of the members of the trade jury.
Category 'Trade Jury - Dutch Spray Rose'
- Spray Rose Royal Blush by Sjaak van der Hulst Rozenkwekerij
- Spray Rose Nynke by Kwekerij De Opstal
- Spray Rose #Sweety by Voorn Spray Roses
Import Rose Prize Winners
Winners with the Professional Jury:
Decofresh also made waves, particularly with imported roses. Their standard Rose Country Blues grabbed attention (and first place!) with its elegant bud formation, gracefully unfolding, and offering something uniquely beautiful. A definite must-see!
Category 'Professional Jury - Import Standard Roses'.
- Rose Country Blues by Ayana-Decofresh
- Rose Deep Purple by Altima
- Rose Sweet Horizon by Diya-Decofresh
Equator presented the nostalgic beauty Hawi, which has this amazing old-rose feel, complete with full, lush petals. It's ideal if you're into designs with a vintage or classic touch.
Category 'Professional Jury - Import Spray Roses'.
- Spray Rose Hawi by Equator Flowers (Sian Flowers)
- Spray Rose Sushi by Holla Roses
- Spray Rose Green Glow by Holla Roses
Winners with the Trade Jury:
Decofresh's Garcia variety also snagged first place from the trade jury for imported roses. This rose really shines with its full blooms and uniformity, making it perfect if you're aiming for sophisticated yet impactful bouquets.
Category 'Trade Jury - Import Standard Roses'.
- Rose Garcia by Diya-Decofresh
- Rose Frutteto by Lobelia
- Rose Sweet Horizon by Decofresh
And let's not forget Holla Roses' Spray Rose Sushi, which topped the imported spray roses category. Its delicate color and even blooming pattern make it versatile for a variety of arrangements, from bridal bouquets to elegant centerpieces.
Category 'Trade Jury - Import Spray Roses'.
- Spray Rose Sushi by Holla Roses
- Spray Rose Sushi by Agriflora (Sian Flowers)
- Spray Rose Elsana by Equator Flowers (Sian Flowers)
Category 'Trade Jury - Breeders'
The prestigious Breeder’s Prize went to Schreurs Holland for their vibrant newcomer, Rose La Rossa. This rose caught everyone's attention with its innovative form, deep red color, and impressive bud size. Honestly, it’s roses like La Rossa that get me excited about what's next in floristry.
Getting the Rose Vibes
Wow, so many prize winners.. so many top-notch roses. It was a delight to walk around all the rose splendor, and among the floral pros who know how to appreciate that beauty.
What makes the Keukenhof Rose Show really special is the community vibe. Florists, growers, and traders gather to share ideas, discuss trends, and find inspiration. It's more than a showcase—it's an essential meetup for anyone serious about roses.
For florists, these winning roses are definitely worth considering for your shops. They offer beauty, durability, and the quality your clients will appreciate. Trust me—staying updated on award-winning varieties helps set your designs apart.
So that's my roundup from this year's Rose Show at Keukenhof. Stay inspired, keep creating, and let me know which roses caught your eye. Till next time!
