Big wins at the 2026 RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Hosta ‘Red Ninja’ won Plant of the Year at the 2026 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, while hydrangea ‘Groundbreaker Ruby’ earned second place. Learn more about sourcing these plants for upcoming seasons.
Plantipp announced it received two top recognitions at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026, with hosta ‘Red Ninja’ named Plant of the Year and Hydrangea paniculata ‘Groundbreaker Ruby’ taking second place.
‘Red Ninja’ (above, left) was recognized for its deep red foliage, compact growth habit and late-season purple flowers. Judges described it as one of the reddest hostas currently available. The variety was selected by breeder Ninja Kramer and exhibited by Sienna Hosta, with Fairweather’s Nursery serving as supplier.
The judges also recognized Hydrangea paniculata ‘Groundbreaker Ruby’, bred by Alex Schoemaker, as the first ground-covering panicle hydrangea. The variety features a spreading growth habit, compact size and ruby-red color transition intended for use in gardens and containers.
According to Plantipp, the award-winning varieties reflect increasing demand for plants that combine ornamental appeal with garden performance and adaptability to smaller spaces and changing growing conditions.
“It’s amazing to see all the efforts pay off,” Kim van Rijssen of Plantipp said. “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.”
This red hosta is available exclusively in the Bloomin’ Easy brand in North America, through a licensing partnership with Concept Plants and Pioneer Gardens. Eager trade professionals will get a sneak peek at Red Ninja virtually during Bloomin’ Easy’s BloomFest Livestream on June 19th, 2026.
“The hype around Red Ninja is unlike anything we’ve experienced,” said DeVonne Friesen, Bloomin’ Easy Plants president. “We couldn’t be more excited to bring such a rare and remarkable introduction to Bloomin’ Easy brand partners across North America. And no, it’s not AI,” continues Friesen. “Red Ninja delivers a striking deep red and green elegance that instantly draws you in. The joy this plant will spread for years to come is what Bloomin’ Easy is all about.”
Featured photos courtesy of Plantipp.