A worldwide search for a rose to honour a global icon, led by Keith Kirsten with the final selection being made by a panel including Madiba’s widow Graça Machel, means that we can now proudly yet humbly present the Nelson Mandela rose.

Nelson Mandela is justly renowned as a humanitarian, leader and peacemaker. What’s less well-known about him is that he also became a keen gardener during his time on Robben Island. Indeed, he credited the patience he acquired as a gardener with shaping his approach to politics.

Keith Kirsten first met Nelson Mandela at a tree-planting event in Alexandra Township, and their friendship blossomed, with Keith helping to create Madiba’s first garden at his home in Houghton. The idea of naming a rose after our first democratically elected President came from the then-CEO of the Children’s Fund, Achmat Dangor.

With proceeds from the sale of the Nelson Mandela rose going towards the vital work of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, there is no finer way to honour Madiba’s legacy in his centenary year than by planting a rose that embodies the vibrancy, stature and love of Nelson Mandela.