Peter Podaras Hybridizer

About the Breeder

Peter Podaras is an internationally acclaimed American breeder of ornamental plants. He holds more than 20 commercially successful patents, most notably for his Flutterby™ series of buddleia as well as many other shrub and perennial cultivars. He is general manager of Wow! Genetics in Boring, Oregon.

Peter discovered his love for plant sciences as an undergraduate at the University of Connecticut. There he received high marks in plant propagation from Dr. Sid Waxman, a legendary botanist and horticulturist who served as professor of Ornamental Horticulture. Peter did his graduate studies in horticulture at Cornell University, like his mentor. It was at the Ivy League research school where Peter developed a passion for ecological evolution and plants (and what they can do) that is infectious—a visit with him never fails to spark a gardener’s imagination. He earned his master’s degree in 2002 and has been changing the gardening world’s perception of breeding innovation ever since.

Breck’s is proud to offer Peter’s latest exciting breakthroughs in self-supporting dahlias with remarkable blooming power—and that’s just the start. We also carry many of his other shrub and perennial innovations, with more exciting introductions on the way. We’re thrilled that Peter’s introductions will continue to expand our garden palettes for years to come. Stay tuned!