The international route of the Alstroemeria revealed

A look at the flourishing world of Alstroemeria production

The Alstroemeria is an indispensable flower in the assortment of many florists and traders. Thanks to its vibrant colours, strong stems and long vase life, it is a popular choice for a wide range of occasions – from cheerful bouquets to understated floral arrangements. But did you know that the Alstroemeria originates from various parts of the world?

By understanding the origin and production of this flower, professionals can better inform their customers, strengthen their sales story and respond to current trends such as sustainability and transparency. Production is concentrated in the Netherlands, but African and South American countries also play an important role.

The Netherlands: The global market leader

The Netherlands is undoubtedly the world’s largest producer of Alstroemeria. Every year, 67 million stems of this flower come from Dutch greenhouses. Dutch growers possess the technology and expertise to produce high-quality flowers, making them popular worldwide.

The Dutch flower industry also plays a crucial role through the Royal FloraHolland auction, the world’s largest flower and plant auction complex. This auction serves as an important trading hub where Alstroemeria from Dutch growers and other countries is sold. Thanks to the logistical strength and efficient distribution channels of Royal FloraHolland, flowers quickly reach their destination in countless countries.

Africa: Growing production power

Kenia

Kenya is an important player in Alstroemeria production, with approximately 5 million stems per year. The favourable climate and low labour costs make Kenya an attractive region for flower growers, who can produce large quantities of flowers in a relatively short time.

Kenya is well known for the export of cut flowers to Europe. Flowers are often exported through airports in Nairobi to the world’s major markets. Alstroemeria production is an important part of African flower cultivation, with flowers regularly traded through Royal FloraHolland.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia has established itself as a major Alstroemeria producer with approximately 5.5 million stems per year, making it one of the largest African suppliers. Like Kenya, Ethiopia benefits from an ideal climate for flower cultivation and favourable working conditions.

The Ethiopian flower industry has grown rapidly in recent years and exports not only Alstroemeria but also other flowers such as roses and chrysanthemums. The flower industry has had a positive impact on the economy, creating thousands of local jobs as a result of the growing sector. Many flowers from Ethiopia find their way to Royal FloraHolland, where they are traded to flower shops and wholesalers worldwide.

South America: Regional specialists

Ecuador

Ecuador, known for its outstanding flowers, brings approximately 3,000 stems of Alstroemeria to the European market each year. The United States is the largest export destination for Ecuadorian flowers. Exports are primarily channelled through the major flower markets in Quito to Europe and North America.

Colombia

Colombia, a major player in the global flower industry, produces approximately 41,000 stems of Alstroemeria per year. The country is one of the world’s largest flower exporters and plays an important role in the global flower sector, exporting various flower varieties to different markets.

The global Alstroemeria market in perspective

Global Alstroemeria production has a diverse geographical spread. The Netherlands remains the undisputed leader, while countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Ecuador and Colombia make important contributions to the worldwide supply. Through the efficient distribution systems of Royal FloraHolland, these flowers are traded on a large scale and quickly, ensuring that the Alstroemeria remains a popular choice for flower lovers worldwide.

The sector not only influences the economies of producing countries, but also plays a crucial role in the global flower trade network, where millions of flowers are traded daily from grower to consumer.

Assortiment

Maak je boeketten en arrangementen af met de Alstroemeria. Er is een ruim aanbod in kleur. Voor welke winter kleur kies jij? Wit, oranje, paars of rood?