Maegan-Leigh JacobsSouth African roses stand tall and proud, casting a vibrant hue across the world of flora. Amongst these exquisite blooms, the ‘Nelson Mandela’ rose takes center stage, a fiery orange-red marvel that mirrors the resilience and strength of the iconic leader it is named after.
Launched at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg, this Eco-Chic variety not only captivates with its striking semi-double blooms but also carries a noble cause – proceeds from its sale contribute to the foundation’s mission of promoting Mandela’s vision of freedom and equality.
Conceived by horticulturist Keith Kirsten, in collaboration with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, this rose mirrors the man it honors. It grows vigorously, reaching impressive heights, and matures into a stately bush adorned with shiny, dark green foliage. The ‘Nelson Mandela’ rose stands as a living testament to a legacy, making a bold statement in any garden as a focal point or a discreet screen to embellish walls or fences.
In the rich tapestry of South African gardens, roses weave an intricate love affair, adorning landscapes with their unparalleled beauty. South Africa boasts an array of roses named after eminent personalities, cities, and cultural aspects, creating a diverse and captivating garden gallery.
Creating your own South African rose collection becomes a delightful endeavour, and here are a few notable selections to consider:
Brümilda Van Rensburg: Acclaimed actress and soap opera royalty, Brümilda Van Rensburg lends her name to an Antico Moderno rose, boasting huge, fragrant, light pink blooms that reach head height.
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Esther Geldenhuys: A doyenne of the rose world, Esther Geldenhuys is celebrated with a hybrid tea rose. Its perfect soft-coral blooms not only win competitions but consistently beautify gardens and homes.
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Germiston Gold: For over two decades, Germiston Gold has been a gardener’s favourite. Its compact bush produces unfading, frilled blooms, making it a timeless addition to any garden.
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Fordyce: Named after the legendary sportsman and ultra-marathon champion, Fordyce is a Stamina rose. It stands tough against heat, drought, and disease, offering an endless supply of pale pink roses.
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Durban July: Inspired by the richest horse race in Africa, Durban July blooms prolifically with clusters changing from yellow to orange to scarlet. This small, neat bush is a vibrant asset in any garden.
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South Africa: Aptly named, this enduring rose is a garden favorite, standing tall, disease-resistant, and adorned with unfading golden-yellow double blooms.
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Archbishop Desmond Tutu: In honor of the compassionate advocate, this fairytale rose showcases sparkling red, old-fashioned blooms on a disease-resistant, tall-growing shrub.
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Fairest Cape: A nod to South Africa’s tourist treasure, Fairest Cape is an informal shrub with clusters of blooms, a natural arching growth, and a delightful fragrance. It doubles as a climber.
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Just Joey: The queen of autumn roses, Just Joey’s beauty is perennial. Group these specimens in a sunny spot with a green, shrubby backdrop, keeping a vigilant eye for invasive roots to ensure their optimal performance.
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