Overseas Vietnamese wins Silver Award at world’s prestigious flower exhibition

Rose Cao, 37, a Vietnamese citizen living in Serbia, has won the Silver Award at the Chelsea Flower Show 2023.

The floral work titled “Dance of Light” by Rose Cao. Photo: Rose Cao's Instagram

Rose Cao, or Cao Thi Huyen, is the first Vietnamese winning at the world's most prestigious annual flower show organized by Britain's Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in London from May 23 to 27.

Rose said that her design depicts the image of a flame and uses a variety of flowers in shades of purple and yellow to create a natural light that shines down on the flower lamp post.

According to the florist, in line with the Chelsea Flower Show's criteria for the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly horticulture, her design does not use plastic.

Rose had six months to prepare her design for submission to the 50-judge exhibition jury.

Rose says that this is rewarding for all the hard work she puts in. She is also very proud to be a winner and to have the chance to introduce her floral art, created by a Vietnamese designer, to British flower lovers.

"The award can help inspire Vietnamese floral designers to showcase their talents in such a big prestigious competition as the Chelsea Flower Show," she said.

Held at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London from May 23 to 27, the event brings together nearly 300 leading British and international companies and garden and floral designers.

Overseas Vietnamese florist Rose Cao and one of her creations. Photo courtesy of Rose Cao

This year's exhibition features over 100 garden and floral designs and 270 booths showcasing horticultural products. It's expected to attract 200,000 visitors.

Formerly known as the Great Spring Show, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a five-day garden show held in May at the Royal Hospital Chelsea grounds in Chelsea, London. The show is attended by members of the British Royal Family and has been held in the city since 1912.

The avant-garde show gardens, designed by leading names and centered around the Floral Marquee, are among the highlights of the Chelsea Flower Show. There are also smaller gardens, such as the Artisan and Urban Gardens.

The Flower Show is also a favorite destination for members of the British Royal Family, celebrities, and professional and amateur gardeners alike.

The late Queen Elizabeth II is said to have visited more than 50 times, making her a regular visitor.