Seasons: Spring at Free State NBG

Spring (September - November) is probably the busiest time in the Garden. Plants awaken from their winter slumber and the Garden comes to life again with a multitude of gorgeous flowers. The greatest variety of biodiversity is to be seen at this time, making it a great time to visit.

Among other species Harrow-breaker (Erythrina zeyheri) is the most prominent season indicator during spring when it resprouts with its brilliant scarlet flowers.

It is during this season that clivias display their colourful flowers making it the most colourful season of the Garden.

At the same time, late in spring, the Free State's emblem flower, the Orange River lily (Crinum bulbispermum), comes into flower.

It is not only the plant kingdom that enjoys the arrival of spring season in the Garden, but also the animal kingdom. Cape cobras, which hibernate during winter, make their appearance after the first spring rains. This is the best time for snake lovers to spot them in the Garden.

Red bishops can be seen on wetland reeds by the dam, building their nests in preparation for the breeding season in late spring.

It is at this time of the year when the Garden welcomes migrant swallows, and together with a host of other bird species, they start to build their nests and prepare for the summer breeding season.

Explore the other seasons at Free State NBG:
summer
autumn
winter

Visit our plant information website to read more about plants in our Garden.