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    • Award Winning Plants

    Why Award-Winning Plants Deserve Your Attention

    Forget popularity contests! Award-winning plant lists are your secret weapon for gardening success. These plants have been rigorously tested and proven to be top performers. They are not just pretty faces; they are also easy to grow, adaptable, and often disease-resistant. Think of them as the gold standard that plant breeders strive for.

    • Hosta Copy of Hosta 'Stained Glass' (4) 1-gallons Hosta Copy of Hosta 'Stained Glass' (4) 1-gallons

      Hosta

      Hosta 'Stained Glass' (4) 1-gallons

      'Stained Glass' Hosta (4) 1-gallons A sport of 'Guacamole' Huge, 10½" long, brilliant gold leaves with wide, dark green margins Variegation appears early in the season and prominent veins throughout give it the look of "stained glass"...

      $122.72
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    • Hosta Sum and Substance 20ct Flat Hosta Sum and Substance 20ct Flat

      Hosta

      Hosta 'Sum and Substance' (20)ct Flat

      Hosta 'Sum and Substance' (Arden 1980) (20)ct Flat Very large. One of the largest hostas available today, with 16", broadly ovate leaves and a huge, mounded form Leaf color varies with the amount of available sun from light green to...

      $241.94
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    • Hosta Sum and Substance Hosta Sum and Substance

      Hosta

      Hosta 'Sum and Substance' (4) 1-gallons

      SUM and SUBSTANCE Hosta (Arden 1980) (4) 1-gallons One of the largest hostas available today, with 16' broadly ovate leaves and a huge, mounded form Leaf color varies with the amount of available sun from light green to chartreuse to gold; prefers...

      $122.72
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    • Hosta TOUCH OF CLASS PP13080 20ct Flat Hosta TOUCH OF CLASS PP13080 20ct Flat

      Hosta

      Hosta 'Touch of Class' PP13080 (20)ct Flat

      Hosta 'Touch of Class' (H.Hansen/Shady Oaks Nursery 1999) (20)ct Flat A sport of 'June'; tetraploid Intense blue leaves are set off by the striking chartreuse to yellow center and green jetting between the center and the margin Leaves are of...

      $256.15
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    • Hosta Wide Brim 25 BR Plants Hosta 'Wide Brim' (25) BR Plants

      Hosta

      Hosta 'Wide Brim' (25) BR Plants

      'Wide Brim' Hosta (Aden 1979) (25) Bare Root Plants Nicely mounded leaves are dark green with wide, irregular margins of buttery yellow Attractive buds open to pale lavender flowers on 24" scapes in mid to late summer Prefers full shade to...

      $234.73
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    • Hosta 'Wolverine' (25) BR Plants Hosta 'Wolverine' (25) BR Plants

      Hosta

      Hosta 'Wolverine' (25) BR Plants

      'Wolverine' Hosta (25) Bare Root Plantss Medium to Large. Leaves are blue-green, moderately wavy and ovate, with yellow gold margin and good substance.Shiny blue green long pointed leaves with a gold margin that become cream with more sun...

      $234.73
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    • Iris sibirica 'Butter and Sugar' (25) BR Plants Iris sibirica 'Butter and Sugar' (25) BR Plants

      Iris

      Iris sibirica 'Butter and Sugar' (25) BR Plants

      Iris sibirica 'Butter and Sugar' (25) Bare Root Plants Common name: Siberian Iris. Creamy white standards and butter-yellow falls, both with greenish yellow veins Excellent flower form Blooms in early summer with a possible rebloom later in the...

      $200.04
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    • Lavandula a. 'Hidcote' (20)ct Flat Lavandula a Hidcote 20ct Flat

      Lavandula

      Lavandula a. 'Hidcote' (20)ct Flat

      Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' (20)ct FlatCommon Name: English Lavender Deep violet-purple flower spikes fill the air with their sweet, intoxicating fragrance all summer long. Though this cultivar has been grown for over 50 years, it remains one of the...

      $179.96
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    • Lavandula a. 'Hidcote' (25) BR Plants Lavandula a. 'Hidcote' (25) BR Plants

      Lavandula

      Lavandula a. 'Hidcote' (25) BR Plants

      Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' (25) Bare Root Plants Common name: Lavender, English LavenderDeep violet-purple flower spikes fill the air with their sweet, fragrance all summer long. Though this cultivar has been grown for over 50 years, it...

      $204.67
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    • Lavandula a Imperial Gem 20ct Flat Lavandula a Imperial Gem 20ct Flat

      Lavandula

      Lavandula a. 'Imperial Gem' (20)ct Flat

      Lavandula 'Imperial Gem' (20)ct FlatCommon Name: English Lavender A compact variety with numerous purple flowers in summer. Proportionate flower stems keep the plant from looking leggy or flopping under the weight of its blooms. The habit is well-rounded...

      $184.28
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    • Lobelia s Starship Blue 30ct Flat Lobelia s Starship Blue 30ct Flat

      Lobelia

      Lobelia s. STARSHIP Blue (30)ct Flat

      Lobelia speciosa STARSHIP™ Blue (30)ct FlatSTARSHIP™ SeriesCommon Name: Cardinal Flower, Hybrid Lobelia Deep violet blue flowers are produced on incredibly upright flower spikes. We have observed better rebloom on STARSHIP™ Blue than...

      $181.93
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    Compare Selected

    Who are the Plant Judges?

    Various organizations, from regional groups to international bodies, recognize exceptional plants. Some focus on specific climates, while others have a global perspective. Some prioritize new varieties, while others celebrate tried-and-true favorites. And some, like All-America Selections, even specialize in seed-grown plants.

    You will find awards for all sorts of plants, from daylilies and hostas to urban trees. A prime example is the Perennial Plant Association (PPA), which has been naming a "Perennial Plant of the Year" since 1990. To earn this honor, a plant must impress the entire PPA membership with its adaptability, ease of care, and resilience.

    Why Choose Award Winners?

    • Boost Your Gardening Success: These plants have a proven track record, increasing your chances of thriving gardens.
    • Discover Hidden Gems: Award programs display unique and exciting plants you might not find otherwise.
    • Embrace Sustainability: Many awards prioritize eco-friendly traits like drought tolerance and pollinator support.
    • Elevate Your Garden Design: Award winners often boast exceptional beauty, bringing vibrant colors, textures, and forms to your landscape.

    Awards programs offer a wealth of benefits for gardeners:

    • Reliable Recommendations: They provide a curated list of plants that have been rigorously tested and proven to perform well in specific conditions. This saves time and effort in selecting plants for your garden, increasing your chances of success.
    • Discover New Plants: Award-winning plants often display innovative breeding or unique characteristics, introducing exciting and unusual perennials that you might not have encountered otherwise.
    • Support Sustainable Gardening: Many programs prioritize plants that are environmentally friendly, such as those that are drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, or beneficial to pollinators. By choosing award-winning plants, you can create a garden that is both beautiful and sustainable.
    • Improve Garden Design: Award-winning plants often have exceptional ornamental qualities, such as striking foliage, vibrant flowers, or interesting textures. Incorporating these plants into your garden design can elevate its visual appeal and create a more dynamic and captivating space.
    • Connect with the Gardening Community: Participating in these programs can connect you with other gardening enthusiasts, experts, and organizations. You can learn from their experiences, share your knowledge, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and innovations in the world of perennial gardening.

    perennial plants awards

    International:

    • Award of Garden Merit (AGM): a prestigious recognition bestowed by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in the UK to plants that demonstrate outstanding performance and reliability in UK growing conditions. It serves as a valuable marker of quality for gardeners, helping them choose reliable and successful plants for their gardens.
    • Perennial Plant of the Year (PPA): Chosen by the Perennial Plant Association in North America, this award recognizes a perennial for its overall excellence in terms of low maintenance, adaptability, long bloom season, and multiple garden uses.
    • All-America Selections (AAS): This program evaluates new cultivars across various plant categories, including perennials, based on specific performance criteria within various regions.

    Regional:

    • Great Plant Picks (GPP): Several regions in the United States and Canada have GPP programs that assess plants for regional suitability and pest/disease resistance.
    • Proven Winners® Perennial of the Year: This award program highlights high-performing perennials that thrive in diverse growing conditions across North America.

    Specific Plant Category Awards:

    • Daylily of the Year (American Hemerocallis Society): Recognizes outstanding daylilies based on various characteristics like flower form, color, and habit.
    • Hosta of the Year (American Hosta Society): Celebrates exceptional hostas for their foliage features, growth habit, and overall garden impact.
    • Grass of the Year (North American Native Plant Society): Recognizes native grasses for their ecological value and ornamental appeal.

    Additional Awards:

    • Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Plant of Merit (POM): A similar recognition to the AGM, awarded to plants demonstrating excellent performance in UK gardens.
    • International Bulb Trials: Evaluate and recognize outstanding bulb varieties, including perennials like flowering onions and alliums.

    The Award of Garden Merit (AGM) is a prestigious recognition bestowed by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in the UK to plants that demonstrate outstanding performance and reliability in UK growing conditions. It serves as a valuable marker of quality for gardeners, helping them choose reliable and successful plants for their gardens.

    Here is a breakdown of the key aspects of the AGM:

    What it signifies:

    • Excellent performance: The plant thrives and performs well under typical UK gardening conditions, without requiring excessive care or attention.
    • Availability: The plant is readily available from reputable nurseries and garden centers.
    • Good constitution: The plant possesses inherent strength and resilience, showing resistance to diseases and pests.
    • Stable form and color: The plant retains its expected characteristics, ensuring consistency and predictability in your garden.
    • Reasonably resistant to pests and diseases: While no plant is entirely immune, AGM-winning plants exhibit a lower susceptibility to common garden problems.

    Awarding process:

    • Plants undergo rigorous trials at RHS gardens or through expert observation in specialist collections.
    • Trials typically last for one or more years, depending on the plant type.
    • A panel of horticultural experts evaluates the plants based on the aforementioned criteria.
    • Awards are only given to plants that meet all the required standards.

    Benefits for gardeners:

    • Provides assurance of a plant's suitability and performance in UK gardens.
    • Helps save time and money by avoiding plants that might struggle or perform poorly.
    • Introduces you to a curated selection of reliable and high-quality plants.
    • Offers a valuable reference point when planning and selecting plants for your garden.

    Additional resources:

    • RHS Award of Garden Merit website: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/trials-awards/award-of-garden-merit
    • Lists of AGM-winning plants: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/trials-awards/award-of-garden-merit

    There are many groundcover perennial plants that have won the Award of Garden Merit (AGM) by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Here are a few examples:

    Hostas: There are over 90 hostas that have been awarded the AGM. They are popular shade-loving plants with a wide variety of leaf colors and shapes. Some popular AGM-winning hostas include 'Francee', 'Gold Standard', and 'Earth Angel'.

    Bergenia: These evergreen plants have large, leathery leaves and produce clusters of pink or white flowers in spring. Some popular AGM-winning bergenias include 'Bressingham Ruby' and 'Admiral'.

    Ajuga reptans: This low-growing plant has creeping stems and blue flowers that bloom in spring. It is a good choice for groundcover in dry shade. Some popular AGM-winning Ajuga reptans cultivars include 'Catlin's Giant' and 'Purple Spark'.

    Geranium cantabrigiense: This hardy geranium has blue flowers that bloom from late spring to summer. It is a good choice for groundcover in sunny or partially shaded areas. Some popular AGM-winning Geranium cantabrigiense cultivars include 'Biokovo', 'Karmina', and 'Rozanne'.

    Nepeta x faassenii: This catmint has lavender flowers that bloom from summer to autumn. It is a good choice for groundcover in sunny areas. Some popular AGM-winning Nepeta x faassenii cultivars include 'Six Hills Giant' and 'Walker's Low'.

    The Perennial Plant Association (PPA) chooses a Perennial Plant of the Year annually. Here are some recent winners:

    • 2025: Pycnanthemum muticum (clustered mountainmint), a native North American perennial that is prized for its fragrant foliage, showy flowers, and ability to attract pollinators. It is a low-maintenance plant that is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. Clustered mountainmint is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, meadows, and rock gardens.
    • 2024: Phlox paniculata 'Jeana', a tall, vigorous phlox with large, fragrant blooms in shades of pink, purple, and white. It is a long-blooming plant that is deer-resistant and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Phlox paniculata 'Jeana' is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, meadows, and mass plantings.
    • 2023: Rudbeckia 'American Gold Rush', a tall, vigorous coneflower with large, golden-yellow flowers. It is a long-blooming plant that is deer-resistant and attracts butterflies and birds. Rudbeckia 'American Gold Rush' is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, meadows, and mass plantings.
    • 2022: Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem), a native North American grass that is prized for its fall foliage, which turns shades of red, orange, and purple. It is a low-maintenance plant that is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. Little bluestem is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings, including meadows, prairies, and mass plantings.
    • 2021: Calamintha nepeta ssp. nepeta (lesser calamint), a low-growing, mounding perennial with fragrant foliage and small, lavender-blue flowers. It is a long-blooming plant that is deer-resistant and attracts bees and butterflies. Lesser calamint is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings, including rock gardens, borders, and containers.

    Winning the Perennial Plant of the Year is quite a process. Here is a breakdown of the considerations:

    1. Nomination:

    • Any member of the Perennial Plant Association (PPA) can nominate up to two plants each year.
    • This means hundreds of different perennials are suggested annually.

    2. Evaluation Criteria:

    The PPA has a committee that reviews all those nominations. They look for plants with these qualities:

    • Widely Adaptable: Able to thrive in a variety of climates and conditions across different regions.
    • Low Maintenance: Easy to care for, not demanding excessive watering, fertilizing, or pest control.
    • Pest and Disease Resistant: Naturally hardy and less susceptible to common garden problems.
    • Readily Available: Nurseries should be able to easily stock and sell the plant.
    • Multi-Season Interest: Offers beauty throughout the growing season with features like long-lasting blooms, attractive foliage, interesting seed heads, or fall color.

    3. Selection Process:

    • The committee narrows down the hundreds of nominees to just 3 or 4 top contenders.
    • These finalists are put on a ballot for PPA members to vote on.
    • The perennial with the most votes wins the coveted title of Perennial Plant of the Year!

    In a nutshell, the Perennial Plant of the Year needs to be a real standout: beautiful, adaptable, and easy to grow for gardeners of all levels.

    You will notice some common threads among these winners:

    • Pollinator-friendly: Many attract bees, butterflies, or other beneficial insects.
    • Adaptable: They can grow in a range of climates and conditions.
    • Low-maintenance: They do not require a lot of fuss to look their best.
    • Disease resistant: They are less likely to succumb to common garden problems.
    • Multi-season interest: They offer something special throughout the growing season, whether it is long blooms, colorful foliage, or attractive seed heads.

    2023: Rudbeckia 'American Gold Rush'

    • Characteristics: Bright golden-yellow flowers, long blooming season, compact habit, disease resistant (especially to Septoria leaf spot, which plagues other coneflowers).
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, adds a burst of sunshine to the garden, low-maintenance.

    2022: Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) and cultivars

    • Characteristics: Native grass with upright form, blue-green foliage that turns stunning shades of red, orange, and purple in fall.
    • Benefits: Provides texture and movement in the garden, drought tolerant, supports wildlife, low-maintenance.

    2021: Calamintha nepeta ssp. nepeta (Lesser Calamint)

    • Characteristics: Aromatic foliage, lavender-blue flowers, long blooming season, compact and mounding habit.
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, deer resistant, drought tolerant, good for edging or containers.

    2020: Aralia cordata 'Sun King' (Sun King Golden Japanese Spikenard)

    • Characteristics: Bold, chartreuse-gold foliage that brightens shady areas, white flowers in late summer.
    • Benefits: Adds drama and texture to shade gardens, relatively pest-free.

    2019: Stachys monieri 'Hummelo' (Hummelo Betony)

    • Characteristics: Rose-purple flower spikes, long blooming season, aromatic foliage.
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, drought tolerant, deer resistant, good for borders or mass plantings.

    2018: Allium 'Millenium'

    • Characteristics: Rose-purple globe-shaped flower clusters, blooms in late summer, attractive to pollinators, deer and rabbit resistant.
    • Benefits: Extends the season of interest in the garden, easy to grow, good for cutting.

    2017: Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed)

    • Characteristics: Bright orange flowers, attracts monarch butterflies, drought tolerant.
    • Benefits: Supports vital pollinators, adds a pop of color to the garden, low-maintenance.

    2016: Anemone x hybrida 'Honorine Jobert' (Japanese Anemone)

    • Characteristics: Pure white single flowers with contrasting yellow centers, blooms late summer into fall.
    • Benefits: Elegant and graceful, adds late-season interest to the garden.

    2015: Geranium x cantabrigiense 'Biokovo'

    • Characteristics: Compact habit, pale pink flowers, good ground cover.
    • Benefits: Versatile and easy to grow, good for edging or rock gardens.

    2014: Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' (Northwind Switch Grass)

    • Characteristics: Upright, blue-green foliage that turns golden in fall, provides vertical interest.
    • Benefits: Adds texture and movement to the garden, low-maintenance.

    2013: Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomon's Seal)

    • Characteristics: Graceful arching stems with variegated leaves (green with white edges), dangling white flowers.
    • Benefits: Adds elegance to shade gardens, low-maintenance.

    2012: Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' (Jack Frost Brunnera)

    • Characteristics: Heart-shaped leaves with silvery markings, sprays of small blue flowers in spring.
    • Benefits: Adds interest to shade gardens, attractive foliage.

    2011: Amsonia hubrichtii (Arkansas Amsonia)

    • Characteristics: Feathery, needle-like foliage that turns golden yellow in fall, clusters of light blue flowers.
    • Benefits: Adds texture and color to the garden, low-maintenance.

    2010: Baptisia australis (Blue Wild Indigo)

    • Characteristics: Blue-green foliage, spikes of indigo blue flowers, attracts pollinators.
    • Benefits: Native plant adds vertical interest to the garden, drought tolerant.

    2009: Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' (Golden Hakone Grass)

    • Characteristics: Cascading golden foliage, adds texture and movement to shade gardens.
    • Benefits: Brightens shady areas, low-maintenance.

    2008: Geranium 'Rozanne'

    • Characteristics: Violet-blue flowers with white centers, long blooming season, sprawling habit.
    • Benefits: Versatile and easy to grow, good ground cover.

    2007: Nepeta 'Walker's Low' (Walker's Low Catmint)

    • Characteristics: Gray-green foliage, lavender-blue flowers, pollinators, drought tolerant.
    • Benefits: Long blooming season, low-maintenance, deer resistant.

    2006: Dianthus gratianopolitanus 'Fire Witch' (Fire Witch Cheddar Pinks)

    • Characteristics: Fragrant, magenta-pink flowers, blue-green foliage, evergreen.
    • Benefits: Adds color and fragrance to rock gardens or borders.

    2005: Helleborus x hybridus (Lenten Rose)

    • Characteristics: Blooms in late winter/early spring, shade-loving, variety of flower colors.
    • Benefits: Provides early season interest, deer resistant.

    2004: Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' (Japanese Painted Fern)

    • Characteristics: Silver-gray fronds with burgundy midribs, adds texture to shade gardens.
    • Benefits: Beautiful foliage, low-maintenance.

    2003: Leucanthemum x superbum 'Becky' (Becky Shasta Daisy)

    • Characteristics: Classic white daisy flowers with yellow centers, long blooming season.
    • Benefits: Cheerful and easy to grow, good for cutting.

    2002: Phlox paniculata 'David' (David Phlox)

    • Characteristics: Pure white fragrant flowers, mildew resistant.
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, adds fragrance to the garden.

    2001: Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' (Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass)

    • Characteristics: Upright, feathery plumes, provides vertical interest.
    • Benefits: Adds texture and movement to the garden, low-maintenance.

    2000: Scabiosa columbaria 'Butterfly Blue' (Butterfly Blue Pincushion Flower)

    • Characteristics: Lavender-blue flowers, attracts pollinators, long blooming season.
    • Benefits: Adds color and interest to the garden, good for cutting.

    1999: Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm' (Goldsturm Black-Eyed Susan)

    • Characteristics: Golden-yellow flowers with black centers, prolific bloomer.
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, easy to grow, cheerful.

    1998: Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Magnus Purple Coneflower)

    • Characteristics: Large, rosy purple flowers with horizontal petals, attracts pollinators.
    • Benefits: Showy and easy to grow, good for cutting.

    1997: Salvia x sylvestris 'May Night' ('Mainacht') (May Night Salvia)

    • Characteristics: Deep violet-blue flower spikes, attracts pollinators, compact habit.
    • Benefits: Adds color and interest to the garden, long blooming season.

    1996: Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red' (Husker Red Beardtongue)

    • Characteristics: White flowers, burgundy foliage, attracts pollinators.
    • Benefits: Adds contrast and interest to the garden, drought tolerant.

    1995: Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage)

    • Characteristics: Lavender-blue flowers, silvery-gray foliage, airy texture.
    • Benefits: Adds a touch of elegance to the garden, drought tolerant.

    1994: Astilbe 'Sprite' (Sprite Astilbe)

    • Characteristics: Pink feathery plumes, thrives in shade, compact habit.
    • Benefits: Adds color and texture to shade gardens, low-maintenance.

    1993: Veronica spicata 'Sunny Border Blue' (Sunny Border Blue Speedwell)

    • Characteristics: Spikes of deep blue flowers, long blooming season.
    • Benefits: Attracts pollinators, easy to grow, good for borders.

    1992: Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' (Moonbeam Tickseed)

    • Characteristics: Pale yellow daisy-like flowers, long blooming season, delicate foliage.
    • Benefits: Adds a touch of sunshine to the garden, low-maintenance.

    1991: Heuchera micrantha 'Palace Purple' (Palace Purple Coral Bells)

    • Characteristics: Deep purple foliage, small white flowers.
    • Benefits: Adds color, low maintenance.

    Hosta Awards

    There are two main hosta associations in the US, and they both give out awards:

    1. The American Hosta Growers Association (AHGA)  

    • AHGA Hosta of the Year: This is their most well-known award, established in 1996. It aims to highlight hostas that are widely available, perform well across different regions, and are affordable (around $15 at the time of selection). This award is what the list you provided earlier was referring to. They focus on hostas that are readily accessible to the average gardener.

    2. The American Hosta Society (AHS)

    This organization focuses more on the collector and enthusiast side of hostas. They have a multi-tiered award system recognizing different aspects of hosta excellence:  

    • Award of Merit: This is their highest honor, bestowed upon hostas that have demonstrated exceptional garden performance over time. These cultivars have proven themselves to be reliable and beautiful in a variety of growing conditions, making them worthy of recognition and admiration.
    • Honorable Mention: This award acknowledges hostas with outstanding potential. These cultivars may be newer introductions or may have been overlooked in the past. They show promise in terms of their beauty, vigor, and adaptability, and are considered worthy of further evaluation and potential future recognition.
    • Eunice Fisher Distinguished Hybridizer Merit Award: This prestigious award honors hybridizers who have made significant contributions to the world of hostas through their breeding efforts. These individuals have dedicated themselves to creating new and innovative cultivars that enhance the diversity and beauty of hostas. Their work has had a lasting impact on the hosta community, and this award recognizes their exceptional achievements.

    These awards highlight the diversity and excellence of hostas, from the most widely available cultivars to the rarest and most innovative introductions. They recognize the efforts of hybridizers, growers, and gardeners who contribute to the beauty and enjoyment of hostas.

    It is worth noting that while the AHGA focuses on readily available cultivars, the AHS awards often go to hostas that might be rarer or newer, recognizing their potential impact on the hosta world.

    Award-Winning Hostas: A Gardener's Guide to the American Hosta Growers Association's "Hosta of the Year"

    Hostas, the beloved shade-loving perennials, offer an incredible diversity of foliage, from diminutive miniatures to giants with leaves exceeding a foot in length. Each year, the American Hosta Growers Association (AHGA) bestows the prestigious "Hosta of the Year" award upon a cultivar that exemplifies excellence in beauty, garden performance, and widespread availability.

    • AHGA Hosta of the Year: Established in 1996, this award highlights exceptional hosta cultivars that excel in several key areas:
    • Garden Performance: They must be adaptable and thrive in various regions across the country.
    • Availability: The winning hosta should be readily available to gardeners and nurseries in sufficient supply.
    • Affordability: The award aims to promote hostas that are accessible to the average gardener, with a retail price typically around $15 in the year of selection.

    The AHGA Hosta of the Year is chosen through a voting process by AHGA members, recognizing cultivars that are both beautiful and widely accessible to the gardening public.

    Let us delve into the world of these award-winning hostas, exploring their unique characteristics and what makes them stand out in the garden.

    Hosta of the Year Winners

    • 2023 - Hosta 'Neptune'
      • This distinctive blue hosta, a favorite among collectors, forms a captivating specimen in any shade garden. Its narrow, wedge-shaped leaves emerge a striking glaucous blue in spring, maintaining their vibrant hue exceptionally well before transitioning to a blue-green later in the season. The heavily rippled leaves boast good substance and exhibit commendable slug resistance. 'Neptune' exhibits a graceful cascading form, making it particularly well-suited for planting on ledges or in containers where its elegance can be fully appreciated.
    • 2022 - Hosta 'Island Breeze'
      • 'Island Breeze' offers a vibrant display of contrasting colors. Wide, dark green margins encircle bright yellow centers in early spring. As summer progresses, the centers mature to a chartreuse hue in deeper shade or a lighter yellow in locations with more sun exposure. Adding to its allure, 'Island Breeze' features showy red speckled petioles that extend into the leaves, echoing the captivating coloration of its predecessor, 'Paradise Island'. In midsummer, dark lavender flowers grace reddish-green scapes, completing the picturesque scene.
    • 2021 - Hosta 'Rainbow's End'
      • This unique hosta captivates with its incredibly variegated, shiny foliage. The bright yellow leaves, characterized by good substance, are edged with dark green margins that intrude towards the center. As summer unfolds, the center of each leaf lightens to a creamy white, creating a dynamic interplay of colors. 'Rainbow's End' forms a medium-sized mound of attractive foliage, adding a vibrant touch to the landscape.
    • 2020 - Hosta 'Dancing Queen'
      • Breaking the mold of yellow hostas that often shift towards chartreuse, 'Dancing Queen' emerges with a bright yellow hue and maintains this sunny disposition throughout the growing season. The large leaves are further accentuated by a prominent pie crust edge, adding a touch of whimsy to this colorful hosta. In mid to late summer, the foliage softens to a lighter yellow, providing a backdrop for the pale lavender flowers that adorn the clump. 'Dancing Queen' indeed lives up to its name, bringing a cheerful vibrancy to the shade garden.
    • 2019 - Hosta 'Lakeside Paisley Print'
      • A testament to the breeding prowess of Mary Chastain, 'Lakeside Paisley Print' is a stunning hosta with heart-shaped leaves adorned by very wide, wavy, green margins. The narrow, creamy white markings at the center of each leaf extend from the cream-colored petioles in a feathery pattern, creating an intricate design. The thick substanced leaves provide the perfect backdrop for the cream scapes that bear light lavender flowers in midsummer.
    • 2017 - Hosta 'Brother Stefan'
      • 'Brother Stefan' is a large-sized hosta with a moderate growth rate, revered by many as one of the most spectacular hostas available. Its thick, heavily corrugated, and puckered leaves are green with a brilliant gold center. In spring, a waxy coating may adorn the margins, giving them a bluish appearance, while the center might exhibit a chartreuse hue. The thick leaves offer excellent slug resistance and form a wide, tall clump, making 'Brother Stefan' an ideal focal point for any shade garden. Near-white flowers rise just above the foliage in late spring or early summer.
    • 2016 - Hosta 'Curly Fries'
      • This irresistible miniature to small-sized hosta is aptly named for its extremely rippled, narrow leaves that form an arching, wiggly clump. 'Curly Fries' is a delightful companion for bright blue hostas like 'Prairie Sky', particularly when planted together in containers or at the front of the border. For optimal color, position this hosta where it will receive morning sun, as its chartreuse foliage will brighten in those conditions. Mature plants develop red speckled petioles, and lavender flowers crown the clump in midsummer.
    • 2015 - Hosta 'Victory'
      • A mature specimen of the giant Hosta 'Victory' is a sight to behold, commanding attention with its imposing presence in the landscape. Patience is key with this cultivar, as it requires time to achieve its full grandeur. While it exhibits a good growth rate, like most giant hostas, it takes several years to develop the enormous leaves and distinctive variegation that make it so remarkable.
    • 2014 - Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd'
      • 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd' showcases dark blue-green, seersuckered leaves with heavy substance that display a unique cupped form, reaching depths of up to 3 inches. This hosta demonstrates good slug resistance and bears white flowers that appear just above the foliage on 22-inch scapes in early summer.
    • 2013 - Hosta 'Rainforest Sunrise'
      • A sport of 'Maui Buttercups', 'Rainforest Sunrise' emerges with solid light green leaves that quickly develop dramatic dark green borders and radiant gold centers. The thick, glossy leaves hold up well throughout the season and exhibit good slug resistance. Light lavender flowers grace 24-inch scapes in midsummer.
    • 2012 - Hosta 'Liberty'
      • A gorgeous sport of 'Sagae', 'Liberty' boasts blue-green leaves with wide, dramatically streaked, yellow margins that fade to creamy-white later in the season. The leaves are notably thicker than their parent, providing greater slug resistance. Lavender flowers adorn 40-inch scapes from early to midsummer.
    • 2011 - Hosta 'Praying Hands'
      • A true collector's item, 'Praying Hands' is unlike any other hosta. Its upright, narrow, tightly folded leaves, resembling hands clasped in prayer, are a unique spectacle. The dark green leaves are heavily rippled with very narrow, gold margins. The matte finish of the upper leaf surface contrasts with the shiny undersides revealed by the folded structure. Lavender flowers on 18-inch scapes abound in late summer.
    • 2010 - Hosta 'First Frost'
      • A sport of 'Halcyon', 'First Frost' shares the same intense blue-green leaf center. It emerges with a gold margin in early spring, which transitions to pure white later in the season. The leaves maintain their beauty throughout the growing season until the "first frost". Light lavender flowers grace 28-inch scapes in midsummer.
    • 2009 - Hosta 'Earth Angel'
      • This superb introduction from Hans Hansen, a sport of 'Blue Angel', features large, heart-shaped, blue-green leaves with wide, creamy-white margins that emerge creamy yellow in spring. Pale lavender flowers are borne on 40-inch scapes in midsummer, making 'Earth Angel' an outstanding specimen plant.
    • 2008 - Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears'
      • This adorable miniature hosta charms with its thick, almost rubbery, round, blue-green to grey-green leaves. It forms a perfectly symmetrical mound and exhibits a moderate growth rate. The flower buds, held horizontally, swell like balloons before opening into clusters of lavender, bell-shaped flowers on proportionally short 12-inch scapes in midsummer. 'Blue Mouse Ears' is perfect for collectors, rock gardens, and containers.
    • 2007 - Hosta 'Paradigm'
      • Formerly known as 'Abiqua Paradigm', this sport of 'Abiqua Recluse' captivates with its beautiful gold leaves and streaked, blue-green margins. The variegation pattern intensifies later in the spring. The leaves are of good substance and corrugated, making them slug-resistant. Clusters of very pale lavender flowers appear on 24-inch scapes in midsummer.
    • 2006 - Hosta 'Stained Glass'
      • A sport of 'Guacamole', 'Stained Glass' displays huge, 10.5-inch long, brilliant gold leaves with wide, dark green margins. The variegation appears early in the season, and prominent veins throughout the leaves give it the appearance of stained glass. Large, fragrant, pale lavender flowers adorn 30-inch scapes in late summer. 'Stained Glass' exhibits greater sun tolerance than many other hostas.
    • 2005 - Hosta 'Striptease'
      • The pointy, ovate leaves of 'Striptease' have sharply contrasted dark green, 2-inch wide margins and narrow, gold centers, creating the illusion of a gold leaf within another leaf. Its name derives from the white strip that appears between the dark green margin and gold center. Pale violet flowers are borne on 30-inch scapes in mid to late summer. 'Striptease' is a sport of 'Gold Standard', though it bears little resemblance to its parent.
    • 2004 - Hosta 'Sum and Substance'
      • One of the largest hostas available, 'Sum and Substance' boasts 16-inch, broadly ovate leaves, and a huge, mounded form. Leaf color varies with sun exposure, ranging from light green to chartreuse to gold; it thrives in locations with 1/4 to 3/4 day of sun. The leaves are thick, corrugated, and glossy, providing good slug resistance.
    • 2003 - Hosta 'Regal Splendor'
      • This sport of 'Krossa Regal' exhibits long, pointed, frosty blue leaves with narrow, creamy yellow to ivory margins. It forms the same upright, vase-shaped mound of foliage as its parent. Lavender, bell-shaped flowers appear on 5 to 6 foot scapes in mid to late summer.
    • 2002 - Hosta 'Guacamole'
      • 'Guacamole' features huge, glossy, apple green leaves surrounded by streaked, dark green leaf margins, reminiscent of an avocado. Leaf centers brighten to gold in summer and with increased sun exposure, while the margins remain dark green. Very fragrant, flared, pale lavender flowers grace 36-inch scapes in late summer. This rapid grower displays good sun tolerance and is a sport of 'Fragrant Bouquet'.
    • 2001 - Hosta 'June'
      • A sport of 'Halcyon', 'June' displays pointed, ovate leaves with distinct, beautiful variegation. The leaves have wide, streaked, blue-green margins and chartreuse centers in spring. The leaf center becomes medium to light gold in summer with sufficient sun exposure but remains chartreuse in full shade. The leaves are thick and slug-resistant. Pale bluish-lavender flowers appear on 20-inch scapes in mid to late summer.
    • 2000 - Hosta 'Sagae'
      • 'Sagae' is a stunning hosta with large, thick, nearly triangular leaves that are frosted blue-green. The leaves have wavy, yellow margins which turn creamy-white with increased sun exposure. Grey-green streaks are painted in the area between the center and the margin. It forms an impressive semi-upright mound of beautiful, slug-resistant foliage. Large, lavender flowers appear on 38-50 inch scapes in early to midsummer.
    • 1999 - Hosta 'Paul's Glory'
      • 'Paul's Glory' is intriguing for its continuously changing leaf colors. In spring, the leaves have blue-green margins and chartreuse centers. By summer, the margins deepen to dark green, and the centers become bright gold. The ovate leaves are corrugated and of good substance, making them more slug resistant than other varieties. Pale lavender, bell-shaped flowers appear on 40-inch scapes in midsummer. 'Paul's Glory' attracts both hummingbirds and songbirds.
    • 1998 - Hosta 'Fragrant Bouquet'
      • This hosta features light apple-green leaves with wide, pale yellow to cream margins. The leaves are broadly ovate, wavy, and of good substance. 'Fragrant Bouquet' is slug resistant, a strong grower, and bears large, near-white flowers on 36-inch scapes in midsummer that are very fragrant.
    • 1997 - Hosta 'Patriot'
      • A sport of 'Francee', 'Patriot' displays ovate leaves with dark green centers and outstanding, crisp white, streaked margins (the margins are creamy-yellow in spring). The leaves are of better than average substance, slightly wavy, and exhibit good sun tolerance. Lavender flowers appear on 30-inch scapes in midsummer. 'Patriot' attracts both hummingbirds and songbirds.

    Conclusion

    The American Hosta Growers Association's "Hosta of the Year" award winners represent the pinnacle of hosta breeding and selection. These exceptional cultivars offer a diverse array of colors, shapes, sizes, and textures, ensuring that there is a perfect hosta for every garden. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice gardener, exploring the world of award-winning hostas is sure to inspire and delight.

    The Benedict Garden Performance Awards, presented by the American Hosta Society, celebrate outstanding hosta cultivars that demonstrate exceptional beauty and reliable performance in the garden. These awards highlight the diversity and adaptability of hostas, recognizing those that thrive in a variety of conditions and provide lasting enjoyment for gardeners.

    Here is a look at the award winners over the years, displaying the top performers in the hosta world:

    2024

    • Winner: H. 'Halcyon' (Eric Smith – 1998) - A classic blue hosta known for its intense color and slug resistance.
    • Awards of Merit:
      • H. 'Fragrant Bouquet' (Kevin Vaughn – 1982) - A fragrant hosta with light green leaves and creamy margins.
      • H. 'Gold Standard' (Pauline Banyai – 1976) - A large, gold-centered hosta with dark green margins.
      • H. 'Guacamole' (Bob Solberg – 1994) - A large, fast-growing hosta with apple-green leaves and fragrant flowers.
    • Honorable Mention:
      • H. 'Golden Tiara' (Robert Savory – 1977) - A small hosta with gold-margined leaves.
      • H. 'Stained Glass' (Hans Hansen – 1999) - A large hosta with gold leaves and dark green margins.
      • H. 'Striptease' (Criss & Rick Thompson – 1991) - A unique hosta with a gold center surrounded by a white line and a dark green margin.

    2023

    • Winner (Tie):
      • H. 'Clear Fork River Valley' (Van Wade – 2007) - A large hosta with blue-green leaves and a creamy white center.
      • H. 'Neptune' (Hans Hansen – 2006) - A blue hosta with heavily rippled leaves and a cascading form.
    • Awards of Merit:
      • H. 'First Blush' (Bob Solberg – 2016) - A hosta with leaves that emerge yellow and mature to green.
      • H. 'Halcyon' (Eric Smith – 1988) - (See 2024 Winner)
      • H. 'Spilt Milk' (Mildred Seaver – 1999) - A white-centered hosta with dark green margins.
    • Honorable Mention:
      • H. 'Fragrant Bouquet' (Kevin Vaughn – 1982) - (See 2024 Awards of Merit)
      • H. 'Guacamole' (Bob Solberg – 1994) - (See 2024 Awards of Merit)
      • H. 'Joy Ride' (Hans Hansen – 2016) - A streaked hosta with green, yellow, and white variegation.

    2022 - 2010

    (For brevity, these years are summarized.)

    The Benedict Garden Performance Awards continued to recognize a diverse selection of hostas, including:

    • Large Hostas: 'Autumn Frost', 'Rainbow's End', 'Sharp Dressed Man', 'Victory', 'Blue Angel', 'Sum and Substance', 'Sagae'
    • Unique Forms: 'Curly Fries', 'Praying Hands'
    • Variegated Beauties: 'Coast to Coast', 'Katie Q', 'Mango Salsa', 'Pandora's Box', 'Vulcan', 'Clear Fork River Valley', 'World Cup', 'Autumn Frost', 'Blue Betty Lou', 'Moonlight Sonata', 'Rainbow’s End'
    • Classic Cultivars: 'First Frost', 'Blue Mouse Ears', 'June', 'One Man's Treasure', 'Whirlwind', 'Gold Standard'

    Key Takeaways

    • The Benedict Garden Performance Awards provide valuable guidance for gardeners seeking reliable and beautiful hostas.
    • The awards highlight a wide range of hosta sizes, colors, and forms.
    • Many award-winning hostas are readily available, making it easy for gardeners to incorporate these top performers into their gardens.

    Want to learn more?

    You can find the complete list of Benedict Garden Performance Award winners on the American Hosta Society website. It is a great resource for exploring the diversity and beauty of hostas!

    2023

    • H. 'First Blush' (Bob Solberg – 2016):
      • Emerging with yellow leaves that mature to green, offering a unique color transition throughout the season.
      • Medium-sized hosta with good substance and a slightly upright habit.
    • H. 'Halcyon' (Eric Smith – 1988):
      • A classic blue hosta with intense color and a slightly wavy leaf texture.
      • Known for its slug resistance and reliable performance in the garden.
    • H. 'Spilt Milk' (Mildred Seaver – 1999):
      • Distinctive white-centered hosta with dark green margins.
      • Forms a medium-sized mound of attractive foliage.

    2022

    • H. 'Coast to Coast' (Olga Petryszyn - 2014):
      • Large hosta with blue-green leaves and wide, creamy yellow margins.
      • Vigorous grower with good slug resistance.
    • H. 'Spilt Milk' (Mildred Seaver - 1999): (See 2023)

    2021

    • H. 'Katie Q' (M. Zilis - 2003):
      • Medium-sized hosta with gold-centered leaves and dark green margins.
      • The leaves have a unique rippled texture.
    • H. 'Mango Salsa' (R. Solberg - 2011):
      • A colorful hosta with chartreuse leaves and dark green margins.
      • The leaves have a piecrusted edge and good substance.
    • H. 'Pandora's Box' (H. Hansen/Shady Oaks Nursery - 1996):
      • A miniature hosta with blue-green leaves and a creamy white center.
      • Perfect for small spaces and containers.
    • H. 'Vulcan' (H. Hansen/Shady Oaks Nursery - 2007):
      • A striking hosta with dark green leaves and a bright gold center.
      • Forms a medium-sized mound of foliage.

    2020

    • No award issued

    2019

    • H. 'Clear Fork River Valley' (V. Wade - 2007):
      • Large hosta with blue-green leaves and a creamy white center.
      • Forms a vase-shaped mound of foliage.
    • H. 'Electrocution' (T. Avent - 2005):
      • A unique hosta with long, narrow, twisted leaves.
      • The leaves are yellow-green with dark green margins.
    • H. 'Gemstone' (T. Avent - 2005):
      • Small hosta with thick, blue-green leaves.
      • Forms a dense mound of foliage.
    • H. 'Spartacus' (H. Hansen - 2007):
      • Large hosta with blue-green leaves and wide, creamy white margins.
      • Upright habit with good substance.
    • H. 'Sum of All' (M. Zilis - 2003):
      • Large hosta with gold leaves and dark green margins.
      • Forms a massive mound of foliage.

    2018 – 2014 summarized

    • Blue leaves: 'Blue Betty Lou', 'Neptune'  
    • Gold variegation: 'Autumn Frost', 'Moonlight Sonata', 'Rainbow’s End', 'Sharp Dressed Man'
    • Unique features: 'Curly Fries' (for its extremely rippled leaves), 'Squash Casserole' (for its heavily corrugated leaves)
    • Large size and impressive presence: 'Victory', 'All That Jazz', 'Captain Kirk', 'Faith', 'Frozen Margarita', 'Spartan Arrow', 'Sun Power', 'Orange Marmalade', 'Pineapple Upsidedown Cake', 'Summer Breeze', 'World Cup'