Kevin Hobbs

Managing Director

With 40 years in horticulture I work with an international network of plant friends and colleagues to bring exciting new plants to market. Having been assessed for uniqueness and commercial potential, the route to market is carefully planned to maximise results for breeders and finders of new hybrids and selections. I believe passionately in adhering to the correct nomenclature along with respecting the original cultivar/hybrid name that was assigned by the finder/breeder, in some cases hundreds of years ago. It is a fact, ‘there’s a story behind every plant’ which is so true and adds to the pleasure of plants as you learn of the history, people and places associated with them.

In addition to my work with ornamental trees and plants I’m employed in the search, selection, trial and introduction of lesser known or new edible plant products.

Following my first book, ‘The Horticultural Guide to Herbaceous Perennials’ I have written ‘The Story of Trees’ (Lawrence King) joined by my friend David West and ‘EDIBLE – 70 sustainable plants that are changing how we eat’ (Thames & Hudson) joined by friend and colleague Artur Cisar-Erlach. I continue to contribute to ‘The Hillier Manual of Trees and Shrubs’ (RHS).

With one foot in commerce the other in botany, my botanical nerdiness along with a broad experience in growing and promoting Landscape and garden trees and plants has, and continues to, bring diversity to my life. As a result, I’m honoured to speak at events within the UK and internationally.

In all areas of production and product development I work to ensure positive outcomes that benefit people, nature and the planet and have, and continue to work with partners, customers and a number of Universities to this end. Instagram @florafanatica