RHS Chelsea Plant of the Year 2026

This annual award celebrates outstanding plants with a new or improved feature, setting them apart from those already on the market. Floral exhibitors in the Great Pavilion are invited to submit new plants to the competition ahead of the show. Entries are carefully considered by a shortlisting panel of RHS and industry experts, who whittle down the number of contenders to no more than 20. These shortlisted plants go on to be displayed at the show where, on Press Day, members of our RHS Expert Groups view them and elect a winner.

The decision is based on three criteria: novelty and innovation, garden performance and likely appeal for UK gardeners. The final vote is informed by the entry information submitted ahead of the show and the ‘wow’ factor of the plants on display.

All the shortlisted plants can be seen on the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year display in the Great Pavilion.