Plant of the Year, awarded for the first time in 2025, acknowledges outstanding plant varieties, sparks innovation and interest in the industry, and celebrates exciting developments in the world of horticulture.
The criteria for evaluation encompass various aspects, from the aesthetic appeal of the plant to its growth and performance characteristics, as well as its innovative qualities and marketability potential.
Plant of the Year showcases the best and brightest in horticulture, from traditional favourites to groundbreaking newcomers. It aims to inspire growers, gardeners, and plant enthusiasts alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity and beauty of our botanical world.
The 2025 Plant of the Year is…
Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea
Hydrangea hybrid
Nominated category: Shrub
Runaway Bride™ Hydrangea is the first garland Hydrangea, known for its elegant weeping habit and profusion of white lace-cap flowers along the stems. It thrives across various conditions, requires no pruning, and sets a new standard in horticulture with its adaptability and stunning blooms.
2025 Category Winners
Categories
Category winners are recognised as leaders in their nominated categories.
In the first stage of judging, plants that achieve a score of 80 % are highly commended. From these plants, the best plant in each category is named ‘[category name – below] of the Year’ and progresses to the second stage of judging.
Shrub
Of the Year
Herbaceous Plant
Of the Year
Annual, Perennial
Of these category winners, a single Plant of the Year is awarded.
Tree
Of the Year
Specialist Plant
Of the Year
Climbers/vine, Edible, Succulents, Indoor/house, Groundcover
Of these category winners, a single Plant of the Year is awarded.
Shrub
Of the Year
Herbaceous Plant
Of the Year
Annual, Perennial
Tree
Of the Year
Specialist Plant
Of the Year
Climbers/vine, Edible, Succulents, Indoor/house, Groundcover
Only one will be Plant of the Year
Only one will be Plant of the Year
Only one will be Plant of the Year
Only one will be Plant of the Year
Only one will be Plant of the Year
Prizes
The winning Plant of the Year will be awarded:
Use of a licensed custom Plant of the Year badge/logo for promotion of the plant, including labels
Plant of the Year branded digital graphics and tiles for the winning plant and the applicant*
Plant of the Year point of sale for print and use at garden centres
Opportunity to display plant in prominent location at Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, as well as associated media coverage
Industry facing NGIV promotional package
*Eligible growers to use the branding are determined by applicant if it is a licensed variety. For all others, usage of the Plant of the Year branding must be approved by the NGIV Board, taking advice from the Plant of the Year Governance Committee.
Enter Now
The criteria for evaluation encompass various aspects, from the aesthetic appeal of the plant to its growth and performance characteristics, as well as its innovative qualities and marketability potential.
Plant of the Year promises to showcase the best and brightest in horticulture, from traditional favourites to groundbreaking newcomers. It aims to inspire growers, gardeners, and plant enthusiasts alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity and beauty of our botanical world.
