Francis Meilland, of Meilland International in France and Robert Pyle, of The Conard-Pyle Co. at the start of a timeless relationship.

Research & Development

Plants that Pass the Test

A beautiful garden begins with exceptional plants. At The Conard-Pyle Co. we spend years evaluating, testing and caring for each plant before it even reaches you.

By building relationships with innovative nurseries and hybridizers all over the world, we have expanded our horticultural capacity. These connections allow us to introduce plants that have passed rigorous tests and trials in harsh climates.

For rose introductions, we rely strongly on the work of large and small organizations such as Meilland International in France and Wisconsin-based William Radler, breeder of The Knock Out® Rose. For woody plant and perennial introductions, we rely on internal and external sources. Even our own employees, with their keen and dedicated eyes have led us to new plant discoveries.

To continue our research and development to introduce more unique and innovative plants, a number of years ago, we invested in a small bio-tech company called NovaFlora. We can't reveal what's up our sleeves just yet, but we can assure you, as with all of our introductions, that there are exciting plants on the horizon.

In 1945, The 'Peace' rose was introduced as a symbol of the resolution of World War II and was quick to become one of the best selling roses ever. In the 1970's, we were pleased to introduce the 'Meserve Hollies' which combined the hardiness of the American Holly with the glossy foliage and bright berries of the English Holly. In 2000, we introduced, The Knock Out® Rose which, in the world of shrub roses, has set a new standard for disease resistance and blooming. In 2008, with great enthusiasm, we introduced The Sunny Knock Out® Rose which was a fresh addition to our popular family of Knock Out® Roses. Its no-maintenance, disease resistance was to be expected but its pastel yellow color and sweet fragrance is what makes it such a memorable introduction.

Our "Rose Heaven" test fields in Wasco, California.

On the perennial side, we introduced Eupatorium 'Little Joe.' While maintaining the great characteristics of a native plant, this variety is unique because it is a true garden size dwarf of 'Joe Pye Weed.' A few years ago, we introduced Veronica 'Tickled Pink', a sport of Veronica aplina 'Goodness Grows'. The unique long, bubble-gum flower spikes are a nice addition to the lavender, blue and white colors that are most commonly associated with this great garden staple.

We are grateful and honored to work with such gifted and passionate people and companies that allow us to bring you and your customers the most unique and versatile plants year after year.