Princess Anne has been honoured with a unique floral tribute during a two-day official visit to Singapore, commemorating six decades of diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and Singapore.
A Royal Floral Honour
During her visit to the renowned National Orchid Garden, the Princess Royal was presented with a newly created orchid hybrid that has been officially named 'Dendrobium Anne' in her honour. Accompanied by her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, Princess Anne received the flower's official 'birth certificate' from representatives of the National Parks Board Singapore.
The ceremony took place on Wednesday 12 November 2025, creating a poignant moment in the Princess's itinerary that celebrates the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
Continuing a Royal Tradition
During her tour of the gardens, Princess Anne also viewed the 'Dendrobium Elizabeth' orchid, which was named after her mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, during her historic visit to Singapore in 1972.
This tradition of naming orchids after members of the British Royal Family has seen six such honours bestowed over the years. The Prince and Princess of Wales were similarly honoured in 2012, continuing a practice that symbolises the enduring relationship between the UK and Singapore.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The low-key Singapore trip, while featuring this touching personal tribute, primarily served to mark the significant milestone of 60 years of diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and Singapore.
The naming of the Dendrobium Anne orchid represents more than just a floral gesture – it serves as a living symbol of the continued friendship and mutual respect between the two nations, with the Princess Royal's visit reinforcing these important international bonds.
