Many gardens may look drab at the moment with winter in full swing, but not here at Helderberg Hospice!

Our garden has many different facets, which means that each season brings its own beauty. The garden, which includes the Garden of Remembrance, also brings peace and joy to many of our patients and their families by providing a gentle, serene, comforting space in which to reflect and contemplate.

The age old Camellias are in full bloom now with fallen flowers scattered around their feet. Bulbs that have lain dormant all summer are popping up everywhere. Leucojum (snowflake flowers) are growing in profusion and Veltheimias with their broad shiny leaves are full of buds just about ready to open. In the sunnier areas, you will find Aloes in all their winter splendor and Pincushions full of tight buds. We have bright Euryops daisies, Gazanias, Oesteospermums in purples and pinks, blue statice, and Lotus flower (Parrots beak) with its striking orange beak-like flower.

And what a show the Vygies will soon be putting on! Clivias also thrive in this garden of plenty. Our roses have been pruned and soon we will enjoy the first flush of their beautiful blooms. The Cape May puts on a stunning spring display of masses of double white flowers.

This is not a formal, manicured garden and many helping hands have joined together over the years to preserve this special place. We make our own compost, and have water tanks to compensate during the dry summer months. If you have the time, and feel so inclined, why not join us on a TUESDAY morning to lend a helping hand? Meet like-minded folks and enjoy a delicious tea after your hard work. Alternatively, we would love you to visit – come and experience a little BIT OF HEAVEN right here in SOMERSET WEST.

Please check our website for all updates and events planned www.helderberghospice.org.za  – we do hope to see you soon!