A rose by any other name… is best found in the Valley of 1000 Hills!

The impending arrival of Valentine’s Day this Saturday tends to send people into a rose-searching frenzy. After all, nothing says ‘I love you’ quite like a fragrant bouquet of red blooms. While supermarkets and florists will be bursting with roses, there’s one place in KwaZulu-Natal that feels infinitely more romantic and far more memorable: Ludwig’s Star Roses in Assagay, tucked into the lush Valley of 1000 Hills.

The Man Behind the Magic

Ludwig Taschner himself has spent decades turning South Africans into proud rose growers. From publishing his first catalogue in 1975 to now offering over 1 000 varieties, his passion has bloomed into a nationwide love affair with roses. He has several rose farms around the country, and his monthly Talking Roses newsletter keeps tens of thousands of rose lovers inspired year-round. 

Meet the KZN Show-Stoppers

Thanks to KZN’s warm, semi-tropical climate, roses enjoy a far longer flowering period than in many other parts of the country. While classics like Iceberg, Durban July and My Granny remain firm favourites, visitors constantly go for the timeless icons such as Papa Meilland, Mister Lincoln, Blue Moon, Double Delight and the ever-popular Just Joey. From velvety reds to deep mauves and buttery apricots, the kal.

Ludwig’s Star Roses is renowned for its Eco-Chic™ roses, celebrated for being ever-flowering and perfectly suited to KZN conditions. Beyond the blooms, you’ll find fresh-cut flowers, rose-inspired products, and the much-loved Thorns ‘n Things range for gardening enthusiasts. 

What You Need to Know

• Address: Fraser Road in Assagay, off Kassier Road (opposite Hillcrest Hospital)
• Times: 8am to 4pm
• Email: star@ludwigsroses.co.za
• Call: 081 380 8496

And while Valentine’s Day may be peak rose season, this is far from a once-a-year attraction. Ludwig’s Star Roses regularly hosts events and rose-care talks, making it a year-round destination for gardeners and flower lovers!

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