How are PHS Gold Medal Plants selected?
Answer
Plants nominated for the award are not necessarily new to the landscaping and nursery trade, but each one must exhibit outstanding horticultural and aesthetic appeal that warrants Gold Medal Award distinction. Although the plants under consideration may be uncommon, each contender must currently be in a propagation program which insures availability to the home gardener. During the course of a year, a distinguished committee of knowledgeable horticulturists thoroughly evaluates plants before determining the Gold Medal Plant Awards.
More on Gold Medal Plants here.