South African Plaza allows visitors to glimpse some of South Africa’s rich plant diversity and the importance for conservation of the world’s ecosystems. Certain high altitute regions in South Africa share the same steppe climate that Denver experiences, allowing Africa's hardy plants to thrive here.

The two raised beds on either side of the circular bed display a succulent rockery showcasing the vast diversity in the family Aizoaceae which includes the popular ice plants (Delosperma) and other choice South African succulents. Many of these feature bright carpets of flowers during the late spring months. During the summer months, a showcase of colorfully planted pots feature non-hardy succulents and annual flowers also native to the southern tip of Africa. Many of the most asked about plants featured in this garden add an exotic look, not found in the plants native to Colorado. These include red hot poker (Kniphofia), lion's ear (Leonotis), balloon cottonbush (Gomphocarpus physocarpus) and Berkheya.

For a list of plants in South African Plaza, click here.