South Africa’s botanical excellence in bloom at Chelsea Flower Show 2025

South Africa's rich botanical heritage is captivating audiences at the 2025 Chelsea Flower Show in London, with two standout exhibits.

May 19, 2025 - 16:00
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South Africa’s botanical excellence in bloom at Chelsea Flower Show 2025

South Africa’s rich botanical heritage is captivating audiences at the 2025 Chelsea Flower Show in London, with two standout exhibits celebrating the nation’s unique flora and design prowess.

???? South Africa’s Coastal Flora Shines in ‘Living Oceans’ Garden

Renowned horticulturist Leon Kluge has unveiled a breathtaking garden titled Living Oceans, drawing inspiration from the meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans along South Africa’s coast.

This exhibit showcases the diverse plant life influenced by these two oceans, featuring a canyon of tannin-rich water cutting through a mountain of fynbos.

The Atlantic side displays the vibrant geophytes and bright flowers of the drier West Coast, while the Indian Ocean side boasts lush sub-tropical plants.

Woven sculptural pieces interspersed throughout the garden celebrate South Africa as the “flower basket of Africa,” blending cultural artistry with botanical beauty.

???? Karoo Succulent Garden: A Tribute to South Africa’s Arid Beauty

In its final year as the event’s headline sponsor, The Newt in Somerset presents the Karoo Succulent Garden, a striking homage to South Africa’s semi-desert Karoo region.

Designed by estate architect Katie Lewis, the 45m x 15m garden features six biomes constructed with sandstone, shale, and quartz to replicate the natural habitats of the Karoo.

The exhibit includes 6 000 plants from 15 families, such as towering quiver trees, fragrant pelargoniums, and uniquely shaped succulents.

This garden emphasises sustainability and water-wise gardening, resonating with global climate change concerns.

Both exhibits not only highlight South Africa’s botanical diversity but also underscore the country’s commitment to sustainable and innovative garden design on the world stage.

Show details

The 2025 RHS Chelsea Flower Show will be held from 20 to 24 May at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London.

This year’s show features 23 diverse gardens, emphasising creativity, sustainability, and community impact.

Notable exhibits include gardens inspired by ecological restoration, AI-monitored urban forests, and themes supporting social causes such as women’s rehabilitation and HIV awareness.

  • Dates: 20-24 May 2025
  • Location: Royal Hospital Chelsea, London
  • Opening times:
    • Tuesday-Wednesday (RHS Members’ Days): 08:00-20:00
    • Thursday-Friday: 08:00-20:00
    • Friday Chelsea Late: 17:30-22:00
    • Saturday: 08:00-17:30
  • Tickets: Available for purchase on the RHS website

Have you ever visited the Chelsea Flower Show?

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