Eden offers ‘Ray of Hope’ blooms to support conservation in the Seychelles

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the Eden Project, a charity dedicated to inspiring people to connect with nature, has relaunched a partnership with the Seychelles Environment Ministry.

In 2003, the Impatiens 'Ray of Hope' plant was bred in the Rainforest Biome as part of a pioneering 'buy a plant and save the parents' collaboration between the Eden Project and the Seychelles government in a bid to protect the plant's parent, Impatiens gordonii, and other endangered endemic plants from the islands from extinction. 

Impatiens are known culturally as symbols of gentleness, patience, and friendship. The name Impatiens comes from the Latin for “impatient,” referring to the seed pods that burst open when touched.  

This story-rich plant is on display in planters throughout the Visitor Centre, growing in the Rainforest Biome and will be available to buy from June 8, with profits from every plant sale going directly towards dedicated conservation projects in the Seychelles. 

Impatiens ‘Ray of Hope’ is an ideal choice for bringing long‑lasting colour to bright, out‑of‑direct‑sunlight spots indoors, and can be moved outside to brighten sheltered areas during the warmer months. It creates lush groundcover that supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, and helps reduce weed growth. Its vibrant pale pink flowers can be seen in the UK from spring to autumn and symbolise hope and resilience globally. 

Florence Mansbridge, horticulture manager, said, “For 25 years, Eden has showcased the beauty and biodiversity of small islands in its Rainforest Biome, with species from the Seychelles featuring prominently. Impatiens ‘Ray of Hope’ continues this legacy, giving visitors a tangible way to contribute to international conservation efforts while enjoying a long-flowering, beautiful plant in their own homes. 

We hope to highlight the critical importance of plant conservation on small islands, whilst making a lasting positive impact on nature recovery projects in the Seychelles.” 

Of every Impatiens 'Ray of Hope' purchased at Eden’s onsite shop and online store (RRP £10), 40% of profits will go directly to conservation initiatives overseen by the Ministry of the Environment of the Seychelles.  

Later this year, the Eden Project will also welcome a delivery of coco de mer seeds (Lodoicea maldivica), the world's largest seed, famous for its extraordinary shape and the myths surrounding it, from the Seychelles. Eden's horticulturists will attempt to germinate these remarkable seeds in the Rainforest Biome, building on previous success with a specimen received and planted in 2003, which has recently developed its first mature leaf. There are also plans to grow the plant for the new Eden Project Morecambe, and distribute them to botanic gardens across the UK. The partnership will again help to safeguard one of the natural world's most iconic and endangered species beyond its native Seychelles shores. 

Florence added, “Our partnership with the Seychelles helps to tell a vital story about the fragility of island biodiversity and the role we can all play in supporting nature recovery.” 

Find out more at www.edenproject.com.