The Fan Aloe is proof that a succulent can be every bit as striking as its cousins, but without the spikes. Formerly known as Aloe plicatilis, this low-maintenance South African beauty is well suited to Mediterranean climates.

If you're looking for a native shrub that provides visual drama all year round, the Wild Rose is worth a look. It has an upright habit with soft grey-green leaves and showy flowers between late autumn and spring. The flowers dangle like little pom-poms and consist of a central cluster of red stamens surrounded by soft, papery, pinkish-red bracts.

Pineapple Sage is one of those plants that really earns its place in the garden. Its soft, lime green leaves smell just like fresh pineapple and are edible. And in autumn, it bursts into bloom with brilliant scarlet-red flowers that insects and birds love.

The African Geranium is a wonderful low-maintenance plant that offers year-round foliage interest with a pop of jewel-toned colour.

As a South African-born Australian, I was thrilled to see quite a few gardens at this year’s Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show celebrating the connections between our diverse plants and cultures.