This room houses a collection of South African plants as well as species that grow in conditions similar to the subtropical climate of South Africa. There is often a pungent, onion-like smell in the room. Southern Africa is famous for its bulbous flowers, and is home to agapanthus, gladioli and belladonna lilies.
This room also features several bird-pollinated plants, such as the crane flower (Strelitzia reginae) growing in the central bed of the room. Bird-pollinated plants are often sturdy, dramatic in appearance, and produce a great deal of nectar. In its native territory in South Africa, the crane flower is pollinated by sunbirds (Nectariniidae).
Get to know the plants in this room:
