Among all the colorful flowers in a bouquet, it is often the greenery that provides balance and a bit of tranquility, and sometimes just that little bit of contrast. The variegated leaves of Pittosporum, light green with a creamy edge, are a good example of this. TAK Global grows this popular variety on a large scale in Guatemala and Costa Rica and supplies it to the European market through Adomex.
Well-known filler
In the floral trade, Pittosporum is a popular filler. Roy Stevens, a buyer at Adomex, personally visited TAK Global last February. "It's a beautiful product that complements a wide range of flowers, from wedding bouquets to funeral arrangements," he says.
"It has a woody texture but remains beautiful for a long time, much like other green foliage, as long as you keep it cool and well-hydrated," says Mónica Bolaños from TAK Global. "Overall, Pittosporum is quite hardy and easy to transport, but a little extra care goes a long way in keeping it fresh and vibrant."
Constant supply
Pittosporum cultivation occurs under shade nets at high altitudes, benefiting from a climate with stable temperature and humidity. The process utilizes integrated cultivation systems that prioritize soil health, efficient water use, and minimal chemical use. The plants are allowed to grow naturally before the foliage is cut, cooled, and prepared for weekly export to Europe.
"Our cultivation process is designed to ensure a constant supply to the export market," Mónica explains. "The location of our farms allows us to provide year-round availability, even during peak periods. We focus heavily on selection and processing to maintain consistent quality. The structure and appearance of the leaves are important features for florists."
Having multiple cultivation sites ensures stable availability all year round. Roy notes, "They can supply large volumes without sacrificing sorting quality or shelf life. This reliability is beneficial for us as importers and for our wholesale customers. Plus, their ability to deliver year-round is definitely advantageous."
Craftsmanship
At Adomex, increasing amounts of Pittosporum are being supplied to retail, with high demand around Mother's Day. Although Pittosporum is well-established in their assortment, its consistent quality and the craftsmanship behind it are sometimes overlooked, Roy believes. "In this market, knowing what you're getting may be what matters most."
For more information:
Adomex
Tel: +31 (0)297 231 290
[email protected]
www.adomex.nl