Sally van der Horst, secretary of Fleuroselect in Noordwijk was taken by surprise last week when she learned that a new pelargonium had been named after her.

Pelargonium ‘Sally’ is an orange variety in the Toscana series from Florensis and was named in her honour for 25 years of service at Fleuroselect, the international organisation for pot and bedding plant breeders.

In the presence of 50 members and supporters, Sally was presented with a sample of the new plant glass in a specially-designed pot.

Jean-Francois Ignasse, vice president Fleuroselect, said: “As an international organization for pot and bedding plant breeders we found Pelargonium ‘Toscana Sally’ the most appropriate way to thank Sally for her boundless enthusiasm and dedication over the past 25 years.”

A surprised Sally said: “If there is anything that is special about this industry, then it is the wonderful people we work with every day, along with a wonderful product.”