Hosta Of The Year – How It Came About

The American Hosta Society (AHS) has an annual popularity poll, in which AHS members vote for their favorite hosta. The annual winning hosta in the AHS popularity poll has evolved into what is now known as the Hosta of the Year (HOTY).

Annual selection of the HOTY includes an official nomination and balloting process. Each AHGA member nominates three hosta cultivars. The nominations are then generated into a “long list”, which is sent to AHGA members where they vote for their top three choices. The list is then reduced to 3 – 5 contenders, and members select a single cultivar on a final ballot. The cultivar with the most votes becomes the HOTY.

Criteria for HOTY selection:

  • The hosta is adaptable to all climates in the country.
  • The hosta should be affordable, a retail price of about $15 to $20.
  • The hosta needs to be distinct and recognizable.
  • Any hosta except a previous winner, is eligible to be selected.

2022
‘Island Breeze’

2021
‘Rainbow’s End’

2020
‘Dancing Queen’

2019
‘Lakeside Paisley Print’

2018
‘World Cup’

2017
‘Brother Stefan’

2016
‘Curly Fries’

2015
‘Victory’

2014
‘Abiqua Drinking Gourd’

2013
‘Rainforest Sunrise’

2012
‘Liberty’

2011
‘Praying Hands’

2010
‘First Frost’

2009
‘Earth Angel’

2008
‘Blue Mouse Ears’

2007
‘Blue Mouse Ears’

2006
‘Blue Mouse Ears’

2005
‘Striptease’

2004
‘Sum and Substance’

2003
‘Regal Splendor’

2002
‘Guacamole’

2001
‘June’

2000
‘Sagae’

1999
‘Paul’s Glory’

1998
‘Fragrant Bouquet’

1997
‘Patriot’