South Africa stole the show at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower show when it not only won a Gold medal with perfect scores from the RHS judges but was awarded “Best exhibit in the Pavilion” as well as the “Best New Design” award. Described as one of the most outstanding exhibits in history within the Great Pavilion, this year’s design was inspired by the windswept slopes of the Cape mountains.
Head designer Leon Kluge and artist Tristan Woudberg led a group of volunteers to create the display that included large clay sculptures which formed the backdrop for the display of fynbos. A multitude of species was presented in the display, from the high-altitude fynbos to the strandveld brimming with bulbs that hug the coastlines. The display celebrates the beauty and significance of one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
After a four-year hiatus and the sponsor of three decades (1989 – 2019) withdrawing their support, Cape Flora SA, a team of volunteers, and numerous contributions from the private sector ensured South Africa’s flora was once again represented at the world’s premier flower show.
Images by: Sven Musica
