This spring, Hyde Park Corner has said they will become a living canvas of colour and rarity as it hosts Made to Bloom, an exhibition of Clivia flowers. From Tuesday, 9 September until Sunday, 14 September, the Centre Court will be transformed into a curated showcase of rare Clivia cultivars, offering a glimpse into one of South Africa's most prized flowering genera.
Plant enthusiasts, collectors and design-conscious visitors will be invited to view a collection that is not available in commercial nurseries. With contributions from three of the country's leading Clivia collectors, the exhibition aims to be a true celebration of natural form and botanical breeding, says the shopping centre.
Among the highlights are new interspecific hybrids, a selection of rare 'double' Clivias in yellow and green hues, as well as varieties sourced from Japan and China. Also on show for the first time is a new compact cultivar bred for indoor spaces — ideal for desks, shelves and coffee tables, says the shopping centre.
"This is a unique opportunity to engage with some of the most finely bred Clivia specimens in the world," says Sheree McHaffie, Marketing Spokesperson for Hyde Park Corner. "We're bringing in everything from mature, show-quality plants to seeds and seedlings for those looking to start or grow their collections. What makes this year particularly special is the unveiling of compact hybrids suited to contemporary urban living."
Clivia, indigenous to South Africa, have long captivated collectors with their bold flowers and architectural foliage. The plants' adaptability and minimal care requirements have made them increasingly popular for both indoor and outdoor settings, says the shopping centre.
Hyde Park Corner, known for its commitment to curated lifestyle experiences, is the venue botanical event. With a strong focus on seasonal programming that speaks to the interests of its well-travelled and design-conscious audience, Made to Bloom says this is the perfect fit into the centre's event calendar, says the shopping centre.
"We're always looking to bring fresh, meaningful experiences to our visitors," says McHaffie. "Hosting a Clivia exhibition of this calibre, especially one focused on rare and unseen varieties, allows us to offer something truly different — a sensory encounter that combines beauty, rarity and expertise in one space."
In addition to the floral display, visitors have the opportunity to speak directly with exhibitors, purchase select plants and gain insight into what it takes to cultivate and maintain these extraordinary specimens. The exhibition runs for four consecutive weekends, with the main showcase taking place from Tuesday, 9 September until Sunday, 14 September, adds the shopping centre.
Whether a seasoned collector or simply curious, Made to Bloom invites everyone to step into a world where form, colour and botanical artistry meet, concludes the shopping centre.
For more information, visit www.hydeparkcorner.co.za. You can also follow Hyde Park Corner on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.
*Image courtesy of contributor