Country of Origin: Where do Flowers Come From?

300In the floriculture business, globalization continues and competition is getting even fiercer. Columbia has solid market share in America, and is now reaching out to Japan. Africa is strong in Europe, and now reaches out to America. India and China are coming on strong. With this many resources, you sometimes wonder, “Where do my flowers come from?”

People often wonder about their flowers’ country of origin in terms of distance. Distance from country of origin doesn’t have to be a deal breaker, however, as long as cut flowers are processed and packaged properly, and shipped quickly and efficiently. And, of course, they must be kept at the proper temperature all along the flower chain. Taking proper care of cut flowers at each step of the process, from harvest to home, goes a long way toward providing fresher, longer-lasting blooms.

Speaking of best practices, check out Floralife’s spotlight article about an Ethiopian rose farm that “does it right.”

So, just for fun, where DO those flowers come from? Take a look…

  • Colombia: Rose, carnation, mum
  • Ecuador: Rose, gerbera, sunflower, baby’s breath
  • California: Rose, gerbera, iris, lily
  • Holland: Tulips!
  • Kenya: Rose, carnation, Alstromeria
  • Ethiopia: Rose, Summer Flower
  • Kunming (China): Rose, orchid, carnation, lily, daisy, mum
  • India: Rose, carnation, mum, gladiolus, lily
  • Japan: Mum, magnolia
  • Malaysia: Rose, mum, carnation
  • Vietnam: Rose, mum, gladiolus, orchid

Just a partial list, from MANY sources. Interesting to see the global dominance of the rose, with local specialties owing to climate and soil conditions. Hopefully, a learning experience but, again, there will NOT be a quiz! How about you? Ever checked the country of origin tag on your flowers and been surprised at what you saw? Let us know in the comments section!

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