South Africa has once again captivated the global stage at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show, claiming gold for the second year running. This year’s success, led by celebrated horticulturist Leon Kluge and supported by gardening icon Tanya Visser and right-hand man Tristan Woudberg, is a proud tribute to the country’s natural splendour and creative excellence. Following last year’s winning return to the Chelsea stage after a lengthy absence, the pressure was on — and South Africa delivered in spectacular style.
Nature’s Dual Influence: The Atlantic and Indian Oceans
The 2025 exhibit, South Africa’s largest yet, was inspired by the country’s unique position between two mighty oceans — the Indian and the Atlantic — and the contrasting habitats they nurture. From the dramatic cliffs and lush escarpments of the east to the floral richness of the Cape, the design celebrated biodiversity shaped by water and wind.
A stunning canyon carved through a mountain of Proteas, revealing cascading waterfalls and vertical gardens bursting with native plants. Among the highlights were the blue Streptocarpus (an indigenous cousin of the African violet), the rare Disa orchid peeking from mossy ravine walls, and summer-rainfall gems like the fiery Sandersonia aurantiaca (Christmas bells) and flame lilies. The display even paid homage to the iconic Storms River mouth — a natural border between the Western and Eastern Cape — recreated through a dramatic living cliff.
A Woven Symbol of Identity
Central to the exhibit was a massive hand-woven basket, crafted in sections by London artisans and assembled onsite. The basket cradled the floral installation and symbolised South Africa as “the fynbos basket of the world.” Leon Kluge described it as a visual metaphor for the country’s role in global biodiversity conservation and a testament to traditional craftsmanship and natural abundance.
The Fox that Left its Mark
Every day, the South African team would arrive early to tend the exhibit. What they didn’t expect was a nightly visitor — a curious London fox. Each morning, its pawprints appeared on the carefully groomed soil. Initially frustrated, the team eventually embraced the tracks as a whimsical, wild endorsement. “It became our little Chelsea mascot,” said Leon with a grin. “As if London itself gave our garden its blessing.”
A Tea-Stained Tribute to the Cape
Adding a playful local flavour, the exhibit’s cola-coloured stream was tinted using 50 Rooibos tea bags — capturing the amber tones of Cape mountain water with a distinct South African touch. This level of detail showcased the team’s dedication to authenticity and creativity.
A Voice for South African Gardeners: Tanya Visser
Popular South African gardening expert, landscape designer, and television presenter Tanya Visser was part of the core team that brought this magnificent exhibit to life. Known for her down-to-earth passion and deep horticultural knowledge, Tanya often describes herself simply as “a gardener first.” As a professional public speaker and advocate for local gardening, her involvement was not only hands-on but deeply heartfelt. “Our proud moment this morning could not be possible without this dedicated team and the amazing sponsors believing in our country and our diverse Floral Kingdom!” she said. Her energy and presence brought warmth and authenticity to the exhibit — making her not just a contributor, but a living representation of South Africa’s gardening spirit.
Voices from the Team
Leon Kluge, beaming with pride, said, “South Africa’s gold-winning display at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show is our biggest yet, with up to 25,000 stems of fynbos cut flowers. This gold medal is shared with every farmer and farmworker who contributed to this achievement. May it inspire us to keep protecting our natural heritage.”
Thanks to the Pillars Behind the Glory
The exhibit was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Hazendal Wine Estate, and Cape Flora SA. Their commitment helped bring South Africa’s floral magic to the world’s greatest garden stage.
A Legacy that Blossoms On
This win brings South Africa’s tally at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show to an astonishing 39 medals over four decades. It is a testament to the power of nature, creativity, and teamwork — and to a country that continues to bloom with pride on the world stage.
