This year, a total of 55 plants from 33 exhibitors from 11 countries competed for the title of “IPM Novelty 2025” in the categories of flowering and green houseplants, spring-flowering plants, bedding and balcony plants, cut flowers, perennials, shrubs and potted plants. Plantipp is thrilled to announce that three of its represented plant varieties have been honoured with the prestigious 'Novelty of the Year' award: Cornus kousa Flower Tower, Hibiscus syriacus Flower Tower Ruby, and Musa sikkimensis Ever Red. 

Cornus kousa Flower Tower ('ZuilB1'PBR) by Diderk Heinje Baumschul-Pflanzen-Handel  has been awarded the esteemed "IPM Neuheit 2025” in the category ‘Geholze’ for its unique combination of beauty and practicality. With its upright, columnar growth habit, this stunning shrub reaches up to 4 meters tall and 1 meter wide, making it ideal for smaller or urban gardens. It dazzles with exuberant blooms in May and June, while its green leaves transform into a striking scarlet red in autumn. Hardy to -18°C, the Flower Tower thrives in sunny or semi-shaded areas with rich, permeable soil and requires no pruning, making it a low-maintenance yet showstopping addition to any outdoor space. 

Hibiscus syriacus Flower Tower Ruby ('Gandini van Aart Ruby'PBR), by Kordes Jungpflanzen and Heinje won the ‘Sonderpreis der Jury’ in the category ‘Geholze’, and is making waves as a must-have for gardens, balconies, and terraces. Its narrow, columnar growth habit is perfect for smaller spaces, while its striking dark pink-red, semi-double flowers with red hearts make it a standout feature in any setting. Blooming continuously from late July to early October, this fast-growing shrub attracts bees and butterflies, reaching a height of 3 meters and a width of 80 centimetres after 10 years. Hardy to -25°C and requiring minimal care, Flower Tower Ruby thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil, with pruning optional in spring for shaping. 

Musa sikkimensis Ever Red ('Lou 1'PBR), available at Streng Growers, Hoogeveen Plants and van der Peijl Tuinplanten, is a stunning tropical plant awarded with “IPM Neuheit 2025” in the category ‘Stauden’ and known for its fast growth and vibrant maroon-red and green striped leaves. Perfect for large pots, patios, terraces, or as a striking addition to architectural garden designs, Ever Red grows up to 4 meters high and 3 meters wide within 10 years, boasting an upright habit with gracefully arching tops. While not edible, this bold beauty thrives in bright spots with well-drained, moist soil and is hardy to -10°C. Protect the trunk with straw or mulch during winter, and watch Ever Red return each spring in all its tropical glory.