RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026 winner: Hosta RED NINJA (‘Nk2021’)

For years, breeders and plant lovers alike have chased the dream of a hosta with true, lasting red foliage. Several cultivars have hinted at red, only to fade as the season progressed. Hosta RED NINJA changes that narrative entirely – as well as ripping up the rulebook on where it should be planted.

Now, it’s been crowned winner of RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026, receiving 30 votes out of 139 from the panel of expert judges. It was followed by Hydrangea paniculata GROUNDBREAKER RUBYin second place with 19 votes, and Hydrangea VELVET NIGHT RED LACEwith 12 votes.

Hosta RED NINJA was bred by Danish plant breeder Ninja Kramer

What’s special about Hosta RED NINJA?

Developed as a full-plant mutation of Hosta ‘First Blush’, this award-winning new cultivar

Gardeners often use the word variety when referring to a specific plant, but the correct botanical term is 'cultivar'. Whichever word you use, it means a distinctive plant or plants, given a specific cultivar name and usually bred to enhance certain characteristics, such as flower or fruit size, colour, flavour or fragrance, plant size, hardiness, disease resistance, etc. Additionally, it is worth knowing that, botanically, variety has another meaning - it refers to a naturally-occurring distinct plant that only has slight differences in its looks. For example, Malva alcea var. fastigiata differs from typical plants by having an upright habit.

takes red colouration to the next level. Its leaves emerge in the spring with rich, intense red tones, complemented by deep green margins, and they retain that colour deep into summer.

From late summer into early autumn, RED NINJA produces delicate purple flowers, rising above the leaves and adding a fresh seasonal layer of interest when many other shade plants are beginning to fade – keeping this striking groundcover plant colourful across the seasons.

This hosta’s versatility is another key strength. Low-maintenance and well-behaved, RED NINJA works beautifully in either sunny or shady borders, as well as containers on balconies and terraces.

Receiving the coveted award, the RED NINJA team said: “Most hostas struggle in sun and need a shady position to thrive. But this is a hosta that actually needs some direct sun, and colours up in sunshine. The more it receives, the better the colour.”

What did the judges say?

The judges were overwhelmingly impressed by the plant, describing it as a genuine breakthrough in breeding with truly unique and novel colouring – particularly the striking red tones in both leaves and stems. They highlighted its distinctiveness, declaring it a standout introduction that differs markedly from existing hostas – boasting unusual yet highly attractive foliage, strong form, and healthy, vigorous growth.

Many noted its versatility, including its ability to tolerate sun without damage and its suitability for both gardens and containers. They feel RED NINJA will appeal strongly to gardeners and collectors alike. Overall, it was praised as a special, commercially promising plant with exceptional visual impact – a compelling addition to the hosta range.

How to grow Hosta RED NINJA

Despite its exotic appearance, Hosta RED NINJA is refreshingly easy to grow.

• Height: up to 35cm
• Position: sun or partial shade, ideally with gentle morning sun to enhance leaf colour
• Soil: moist but well-drained
• Hardiness: fully hardy down to –23°C

Once established, it requires minimal care, making it ideal for both experienced gardeners and confident beginners looking to add something special to their planting palette.

Breeder: Ninja Kramer. Exhibitor: Sienna Hosta. Supplier: Fairweather’s Nursery.

Discover the runners-up and other finalists for RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026 here.