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Plantipp celebrates a double success at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026, with Hosta Red Ninja® winning Plant of the Year and Hydrangea paniculata Groundbreaker® Ruby taking second place.
First place for Hosta Red Ninja®
Hosta Red Ninja® ('NK2021'PBR) impressed the judges with its exceptionally deep red foliage, described as one of the reddest hostas currently on the market. The variety combines strong colour retention with purple late-season flowers and a compact, low-maintenance habit.
Hosta Red Ninja® was selected by breeder Ninja Kramer and exhibited by Sienna Hosta, with Fairweather’s Nursery as supplier. Beyond its striking appearance, the variety was recognised for bringing genuine innovation to the hosta category, combining ornamental value with strong garden performance and broad consumer appeal.
Hydrangea Groundbreaker® Ruby takes second place
Alex Schoemaker’s Hydrangea paniculata Groundbreaker® Ruby ('LC NO27'PBR) also stood out as the world’s first true ground-covering panicle hydrangea. Its naturally spreading habit, compact size and ruby-red colour transformation offer an entirely new use for Hydrangea paniculata in modern gardens and containers.
The awards highlight the growing demand for innovative, high-performing plants that combine strong visual impact with practical garden performance. Plantipp’s Chelsea 2026 collection focused on varieties developed for real growing conditions, smaller spaces and changing climate demands.
The Plantipp team is delighted with this recognition. Kim van Rijssen at Plantipp says: “It’s amazing to see all the efforts pay off. The growers and breeders behind these plants have worked for years with so much passion, and to see their commitment rewarded like this gives a real sense of victory.”
