The award celebrates new plants launched at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and helps to bring these wonderful introductions to UK gardeners. Information and images of plants submitted by exhibitors were considered by RHS Garden Curators and over 180 experts from RHS Plant Committees and Trials Forums, taking into account the breeding journey, innovative or improved characteristics and likely public appeal.

Prunus ‘Starlight’®, a new winter and spring ornamental flowering cherry, has exceptionally attractive and unusual star-shaped pure white flowers. Its profuse flowering habit in late March often extends well into April, while there can also be a smattering of flowers over winter.

The flower also has good resistance to frost damage. The tree is a healthy grower, robust with glossy foliage and a graceful habit, and propagates well. Introduced by Frank P Matthews, bred by Ken Tobutt and exhibited by Green JJam Nurseries.