The South African Landscapers Institute (SALI) has bestowed its highest honour, the National Judge’s Discretionary Award 2025, on internationally acclaimed landscape designer, botanist, and presenter Leon Kluge. This award recognises Kluge’s extraordinary efforts in elevating South African landscape design onto the world stage and promoting the country’s botanical wealth to international audiences.
A Year of Unprecedented Achievements
2025 has been a landmark year for Kluge. At the world-renowned RHS Chelsea Flower Show, he achieved a historic double victory, securing both a Gold Medal and the coveted Lawrence Medal — the highest annual accolade awarded by the Royal Horticultural Society for the best exhibit shown that year. His garden captivated judges and audiences alike with its bold fusion of indigenous South African flora and striking sculptural elements, blending local roots with global appeal.
Bringing Chelsea Home
In a true reflection of his dedication to his home country, Kluge plans a full-scale recreation of his 2025 Chelsea show garden later this year. This initiative allows South Africans to experience first-hand the design that earned international acclaim, serving as both inspiration and education for local horticulturists and garden enthusiasts.
A Trail of Global Recognition
Leon Kluge’s recent international accomplishments further underscore his position as a global ambassador for South African landscape design. His impressive portfolio includes:
2024 RHS Chelsea Flower Show – Gold Medal Winner
(Recreated in Stanford, Western Cape, offering South Africans a taste of Chelsea’s magic.)
‘Between 2 Worlds’ – Singapore Garden Festival
(A sophisticated blend of cultural narratives and plant artistry.)
‘Living Contours’ – Shenzhen International Flower Show, China
(Showcasing fluid design inspired by South Africa’s natural landscapes.)
‘On the Verge’ – Luxembourg
(Exploring the intersections between natural beauty and modern garden design.)
Each of these projects reflects Kluge’s passion for connecting cultures through landscape design, while consistently championing South Africa’s unique flora.
A Lasting Legacy of Inspiration
Leon Kluge’s vision transcends the garden bed. His work is a powerful statement about the richness of South Africa’s botanical heritage and its rightful place on the international stage. By blending scientific knowledge, artistic flair, and cultural storytelling, Kluge has carved out a unique space for South African landscape design in global horticulture.
