Following a thorough training in horticulture, Rainer Kretz studied landscape architecture in Germany before moving to the UK.
From the very beginning he had a special interest in native flora. As a result, became a pioneer in the creation and management of wildflower meadows in urban areas. Rainer Kretz has been a specialist grower and breeder of the orchid genus Pleione for over 30 years. In addition, he is a keen gardener and knowledgeable plantsman.
Ranier discovered Lychnis Jenny amongst a riot of color in a large flowering of pink Ragged Robin. His eye was drawn to a clump of a denser, more substantial pink with an altogether different texture. Looking more closely, he was surprised to find the plant was a double form of Ragged Robin. The plant is named Jenny after his wife, whose patience and tolerance allowed him to indulge in his plant hunting passion.