South Africa has once again made a proud statement on the world stage by winning a Gold Medal at the 2025 RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London. This follows the country’s spectacular showing in 2024, proving that our local flora and design talent remain among the best in the world.
The 2025 exhibit, titled “Living Oceans”, was inspired by the place where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet along South Africa’s coastline. The design celebrated the biodiversity shaped by ocean currents and rocky cliffs, using an incredible range of indigenous plants arranged in a sculptural, dramatic landscape.
The Designers Behind the Magic
The garden was created by renowned horticulturist Leon Kluge, who collaborated with Tristan Woudberg on the artistic elements. Their goal was to reflect the power and resilience of South Africa’s coastal ecosystems using more than 25,000 stems of ethically sourced plants, including fynbos, succulents, and coastal species.
The result was a breathtaking natural scene that told a deeper story of climate, ecology, and beauty.
“This garden tells a story about how the two oceans shape our landscape and our plants. It is raw, bold, and proudly South African,” said Kluge in an interview.
Continued Success After 2024
South Africa also participated in the 2024 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, where it won Gold, along with the Best Exhibit in the Great Pavilion and Best New Design awards for the garden titled Mountains of Abundance. That success was a return after the withdrawal of public funding in 2021.
Privately Funded, Publicly Celebrated
With no government funding in recent years, South Africa’s return to Chelsea has been made possible by private donors and a deeply committed team. The key supporters who helped fund and guide the project include:
- Michael Lutzeyer from the Grootbos Foundation
- Keith Kirsten, legendary horticulturist and longtime Chelsea supporter
- Marinda Nel, past chairperson of the Botanical Society of South Africa
Their dedication ensures South Africa continues showcasing its botanical heritage and design excellence on one of the world’s most prestigious platforms.
Why Chelsea Matters
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most high-profile events in global horticulture. Winning Gold there places South Africa alongside the world’s best landscape and garden designers. It is also a powerful celebration of our biodiversity, conservation work, and artistic innovation.
With this year’s win, South Africa adds to its long list of accolades, now standing at 40 Gold Medals since first exhibiting more than 40 years ago.
Explore More
🌸 Also read last year’s feature on Super Shazzer:
Blooming Glory – South Africa Triumphs with 34th Gold Medal at Chelsea Flower Show 2024
For more good news, local stories, and South African pride, stay close to Super Shazzer.
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