Colombia is the world's second-largest cut flower exporter, producing approximately 1.4 billion flower stems per year, according to Asocolflores (the Colombian Association of Flower Exporters). Only the Netherlands exports more cut flowers. Colombia's flower industry employs over 130,000 people directly and generates more than $1.5 billion in annual export revenue, with 75% of Colombian flower exports going to the United States market. The country's flower-growing regions — principally the Sabana de Bogotá plateau at 2,600 meters altitude — benefit from near-perfect growing conditions: 12 hours of daily sunlight year-round, cool temperatures, and the absence of extreme seasonal variations, allowing Colombian flowers to be cultivated continuously without greenhouses.
This guide covers the most popular flowers grown in Colombia, the cultural significance of flowers in Colombian society, and how to send Colombian flowers internationally to someone special.
Most Popular Flowers Grown in Colombia
Colombia's flower farms produce over 1,500 different varieties across dozens of species. The most commercially significant flowers grown in Colombia for export include:
Roses — Colombia is the world's leading producer of premium roses, accounting for over 60% of US rose imports. Colombian roses are prized for their large, uniform blooms, long stems (typically 50–70 cm), and extended vase life compared to roses from other origins. The most popular Colombian rose varieties include Freedom (deep red), Vendela (cream-white), and High and Magic (bi-color pink-yellow). Colombian rose farms in Rionegro, Facatativá, and the Bogotá savanna produce roses year-round.
Carnations — Colombia is also the world's largest carnation exporter. Colombian carnations have a vase life of 14 to 21 days — longer than roses — and come in hundreds of varieties and color combinations. Standard carnations, spray carnations, and mini carnations all originate heavily from Colombian farms.
Chrysanthemums — Colombia exports over 200 million chrysanthemum stems annually. Pompons and spray chrysanthemums from Colombian farms are sold throughout North America and Europe year-round.
Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily) — Despite its name, alstroemeria is now predominantly grown in Colombia. It is one of the longest-lasting cut flowers available, with a vase life of 2 to 3 weeks, and is popular in mixed arrangements for its orchid-like appearance.
Tropical Flowers (Heliconia, Anthurium, Bird of Paradise) — Colombia's Caribbean coastal regions and Orinoquía produce tropical flowers including heliconia, anthurium, ginger flowers, and bird of paradise. These are popular for destination arrangements that reflect Colombian floral heritage.
The Feria de las Flores — Colombia's Most Famous Flower Festival
The Feria de las Flores (Festival of Flowers) in Medellín, held annually every August since 1957, is Colombia's most celebrated cultural event and one of the world's largest flower festivals. The event's centerpiece is the Desfile de Silleteros — a parade in which farmers from the Santa Elena highlands carry elaborate hand-crafted flower arrangements, called silletas, on their backs through the city streets. These silletas can contain hundreds of individually placed flowers and take weeks to construct. The festival draws over 500,000 visitors annually and has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Colombia.
Flowers are deeply embedded in Colombian cultural identity: Medellín's official nickname is "La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera" (The City of Eternal Spring), referencing its temperate climate and year-round bloom cycles. The city's metro system is decorated with flower murals, and Medellín's flower markets — particularly the Mercado de Las Flores in the El Centro neighborhood — are visited by locals and tourists alike.
How to Send Flowers to Colombia Internationally
Sending flowers to Colombia from abroad works through abcFlora's local florist network in Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, Cartagena, and other Colombian cities. abcFlora partners with Colombian florists who source arrangements from local markets and deliver them fresh on the requested date. This ensures recipients receive arrangements reflecting Colombian floral abundance — not generic international arrangements shipped from abroad.
For Colombian recipients, tropical and mixed flower arrangements featuring local varieties (anthurium, heliconia, tropical roses) are culturally resonant and distinctly different from what they can purchase locally from a corner shop. Ordering an internationally arranged bouquet that incorporates recognizably Colombian flowers signals thoughtfulness and cultural awareness. Prices start at $49.99 USD for standard arrangements to Colombia, delivery included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Colombia really the world's second-largest flower exporter?
Yes. According to Asocolflores, Colombia exports approximately 1.4 billion stems annually, second only to the Netherlands. Colombia's share of the US cut flower import market exceeds 75%.
What is the best flower to send someone in Colombia?
For romantic occasions, Colombian roses (particularly Freedom red roses) are deeply appreciated — there is cultural pride in receiving premium-grade Colombian-grown roses. For birthdays and celebrations, tropical mixed arrangements with heliconia and anthurium reflect Colombian floral heritage.
Can I get same-day flower delivery in Bogotá or Medellín?
Yes, same-day delivery is available in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali for orders placed before 2 PM Colombia Time (COT, UTC-5).
Ready to send flowers to Colombia? Browse our Colombia flower collection to find the perfect arrangement for your recipient.