Nestled in one of the world’s largest glass greenhouses at Gardens by the Bay in Singapore is a South African garden resplendent with lilies, fynbos and proteas.
At the Flower Dome, South Africa joins Italy, Spain, California and Singapore in a shared space presenting their unique offerings to thousands passing through the gates of this futuristic horticultural spectacle.
The South Africa project was launched in 2013, a few months after the opening of Gardens by the Bay.
South Africa’s High Commissioner to Singapore, HE Madiepetsane Charlotte Lobe said Gardens by the Bay extends Singapore’s vision of creating a City in a Garden. “This innovation brings greenery and biodiversity into the urban landscape,” she said.
Not only is there emphasis on roadside greenery but also skyline greenery with trees spotted at the top of high-rise buildings.
Years earlier in 2007, President Mandela’s visit to Singapore prompted the government to name a giant Cola Tree at the country’s Botanical Gardens after him. “It was fitting that a Cola Gigantea, native to tropical West Africa, was chosen as the appropriate tree. He became the first and only dignitary in Singapore to have a tree named after him to commemorate his visit,” she said.
The High Commissioner with the Chief Executive Officer of the gardens, Mr Felix Loh at the 10th Anniversary celebrations.
The writer, Zubeida Jaffer visiting the South African garden.
Singaporean flowers and plants on display.
Friday, April 26, 2024