New Fynbos Discoveries and Chelsea Flower Show Prep

Your Feelgood Friday starts with news of an exciting little plant that was spotted by a member of our Conservation Research team this week. Casually growing in a seep in recently burnt veld, this is the Water Heath (Erica curviflora), which is a new species for the Grootbos species list and the 40th species of Erica recorded on the nature reserve! Ultimately, our love of the diversity and constant surprises that fynbos reveals is what inspires the Grootbos Foundation.

Isn't this a stunning specimen of Liparia splendens in full bloom in the burnt veld on Grootvlei?

Here, Stilbe ericoides looks gorgeous after a light sprinkle of raindrops.

Our parting shot this week is from London, where 4 of the Grootbos team have joined South Africa's favourite floral designer, Leon Kluge, and his team to begin the work of building the structure that will hold Leon's vision of 'Fynbos after Fire'. Chosen for their ability to work hard and solve any problem while being able to handle a hammer, a drill, a pincushion or maybe even a royal family member, we are proud of Bulelani, Rebecca, July and Vincent. We can't wait for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026 to open and reveal the display of fynbos! From all of us at Grootbos Foundation, I wish you a wonderful weekend.