Cape Flora SA (CFSA) and the Western Cape Government have teamed up to bring South Africa’s unique floral beauty to the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show, opening today in London. CFSA Board Member and Managing Director of De Fynne Nursery near Paarl, Jacky Goliath, will represent both emerging and established South African cut flower producers at this globally renowned event, hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society.
The Chelsea Flower Show, an internationally acclaimed exhibition, draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year. South African fynbos displays have been a standout attraction since their debut in 1976, winning 37 gold medals and captivating flower enthusiasts globally.
Jacky Goliath expressed her excitement about the positive reception of the South African team and their floral products. “Being part of the team and working with our national plants is incredibly exciting. Everyone is thrilled to see South Africa back at the show,” she said. “Our products truly stand out, and it’s an honor to represent South Africa.”
This year’s South African exhibit at Chelsea will highlight the rich diversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Fynbos cut flowers, a significant export product for the Western Cape, account for 90% of South Africa’s cut flower exports, providing vital income to many rural communities.
In 2023, the global market for fresh-cut flowers outperformed dried flowers, with fresh-cut flowers valued at R85 billion compared to R10 billion for dried flowers. South African fresh-cut flowers followed this trend, achieving R932 million in exports, while dried flowers were valued at R98 million.
Karien Bezuidenhout, manager of Cape Flora, noted that the export market’s growth has driven modernization and innovation within the industry. “This has led to higher product quality, benefiting sales in both domestic and international markets. The growing demand for high-quality fynbos products is welcomed, providing livelihoods for stakeholders and communities within the South African fynbos industry,” she said.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Ivan Meyer, welcomed South Africa’s participation in the event. “Our presence at the Chelsea Flower Show will showcase the unique fynbos of the Western Cape. With the potential increase in fynbos cut flower exports, more jobs will be created, benefiting both commercial and new farmers,” Minister Meyer stated.
South Africa’s return to the Chelsea Flower Show not only highlights the country’s botanical treasures but also underscores the economic and community benefits derived from the flourishing cut flower industry.
