South African Floral Kingdom Abroad

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Chelsea Flower Show

South Africa is home to the Cape Floral Kingdom, one of the six identified floristic kingdoms in the world. The Cape Floral Region is also inscribed as a UNESCO heritage site.

Its land area represents less than 0,5% of the African continent and contains 20% of the continent’s flora. The density, endemism, and diversity of an estimated 9 000 plant species have made this region one of the world’s 35 biodiversity hotspots. 

A private sector-led initiative and team that includes Leon Kluge, winner of the last two gold medals, Keith Kirsten, Michael Lutzeyer and Marinda Nel past Chairman of the Botanical Society and project manager. 

The return of SA has been made possible with the support from private sponsors and donors.

 

"It simultaneously creates the opportunity to highlight plants as “a source of joy and fulfilment, building healthier lives, stronger communities and thriving environments” - as eloquently summarised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

2025 RHS Chelsea show

2024 RHS Chelsea show

The team

Leon Kluge

Leon is an international floral artist and landscape designer, exhibiting and designing gardens around the world. In SA he hosts a tv show called “die groenste vingers” and “leon kluge plant safari’s”. Under Leon’s direction the exhibit will showcase this diversity from the coastal sands to the rich fynbos found in different biomes of hills and mountains and cut flower hybrids which have originated from this biodiverse landscape. 

Michael Lutzeyer

Over the last decade Michael has successfully merged a passionate enthusiasm for conservation with sound business principals in the development of Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Grootbos Foundation an NPO and the Grootbos Florilegium followed.

Keith Kirsten

Keith Kirsten, renowned horticultural specialist, has been referred to as the guru gardener of South Africa and has for many years organised annual tours to gardens in England, including Highgrove the private residence of Their Majesties The King Charles III and The Queen Camilla.

Marinda Nel

Marinda Nel, former chairman of the Botanical Society and Kirstenbosch Branch, honed her skills in the business world at one of South Africa’s leading blue-chip companies. Her expertise spans financial analysis, business development, the principles of good governance, and managing outcomes. However, it is her profound passion for indigenous plants and the preservation of our country’s environment that has inspired her involvement in managing the return of our plants to Chelsea.