Threatened Plant of the Year 2024 competition returns

The much-anticipated Threatened Plant of the Year 2024 competition, organised by Plant Heritage, has kicked off once again.

This annual quest for rare or unique plants nurtured by gardeners has aimed to spotlight and safeguard botanical gems thriving in British gardens.

People in Devon have been invited to participate in this botanical treasure hunt.

The task is simple: scout for any exceptional, rare, or named plant variety flourishing in your garden, absent from commercial outlets such as nurseries or garden centres. 

Each participant can submit up to five distinct cultivars, provided they have been cultivated or sold in the UK or Ireland before 2014. 

All plant types are eligible for consideration.

Interested participants have until May 19 to tender their entries, which will undergo scrutiny by a panel of expert judges from Plant Heritage. 

In return, the lucky winner will receive the Threatened Plant of the Year 2024 winner’s vase, a certificate of honour, and a special plant label. 

The grand announcement is slated to take place at the prestigious RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival on July 1. 

Gill Groombridge, business manager at Plant Heritage, said: “The importance of discovering and caring for rare and threatened plants that may not exist anywhere else in the country, cannot be overstated. 

“Through our Threatened Plant of the Year competition, we can ensure that rare plants are protected and propagated to ensure they have a secure future ahead.”

This year marks the fifth year of a prestigious competition known for uncovering rare plants. Last year's winner was a very rare ornamental quince grown by David Ford in Surrey. Past winners include a delicate Paeonia, a beautiful Camellia, and an elegant Clematis.

Plant Heritage, a non-profit organisation, depends on volunteers to conserve plants. Visit their website at www.plantheritage.org.uk to learn more.