Kenyan flower grower and exporter Eliana Flowers is continuing to build its presence in international markets with a focus on premium roses, summer flowers, and consistent quality standards. Based in Nyeri and Kajiado County, the company operates on 10 hectares at an altitude of approximately 2,000 meters above sea level.
According to Christine Wanjiku of Eliana Flowers, the high-altitude location creates ideal conditions for flower cultivation. "We are committed to delivering fresh, high-quality flowers to both local and international markets, ensuring excellence in every stem we produce."
The company grows and exports several premium rose varieties, including Red Planet, Look and Love, RSN 19 Sweet Whisper, and Dixieland. Alongside roses, Eliana Flowers also produces a range of summer flowers such as tuberose, craspedia, eucalyptus, agapanthus, and Ammi Visnaga.
© Eliana Flowers
Focus on growing conditions and quality
When it comes to production priorities, Christine explains that managing the natural advantages of the farm is essential. "At our altitude, conditions are naturally favorable, but we still need to carefully manage temperature and humidity, especially for roses, light exposure for uniform growth, and protection from extreme weather through greenhouses or shade nets."
To meet export market standards, the company places strong emphasis on quality control throughout the growing and post-harvest process. "We use certified, disease-free planting material, maintain uniform spacing and pruning for consistent stem quality, and harvest roses at the correct bud stage—tight but mature," she says. "Summer flowers are cut at optimal maturity for transport, and harvesting is done early in the morning to preserve freshness."
Growing demand, rising expectations
Looking at market developments, she notes that global demand for flowers continues to rise. "The cut flower market is growing strongly and is expected to reach over $60 billion by 2030. Floriculture is expanding at over 10% annual growth in some markets. Demand is increasing, but so is competition and quality expectations."
Currently, Eliana Flowers' main export destination is the Middle East, but the company is planning further market expansion.
Freight challenges remain key concern
Like many Kenyan growers, Eliana Flowers is also facing logistical pressures. According to Christine, high freight costs remain one of the biggest challenges for exporters.
"Air freight is one of the biggest cost drivers for exporters. Rates have risen significantly and capacity is limited. Disruptions such as global conflicts or flight shortages can delay shipments and cause losses."
© Eliana Flowers
Expansion plans for the coming years
Looking ahead, Eliana Flowers plans to gradually increase its cultivated area beyond the current 10 hectares in order to boost production while maintaining quality standards.
"We are working to expand our presence in key export markets, particularly Europe and the Middle East, by building strong relationships with buyers and ensuring consistent supply and quality," Christine says. The company is also focusing on handling and grading systems as well as packaging standards.
Building a long-term brand
Christine remains optimistic about the future of the sector and believes Kenya continues to offer strong opportunities for flower growers.
"The flower industry continues to offer great opportunities, especially for growers in Kenya due to favorable climate and growing global demand. However, success today requires more than just production. It requires efficiency, innovation, and adaptability."
She adds that Eliana Flowers sees the future of floriculture in "consistent quality and reliability, sustainable and environmentally responsible farming, understanding and responding to changing market trends, and strong partnerships across the value chain."
"We also believe that diversification—both in flower varieties and markets—is key to reducing risk and improving profitability. Our goal is not only to grow flowers, but to build a brand that represents quality, trust, and excellence in the global market."
IFTEX
Eliana Flowers will exhibit at IFTEX 2026 (June 2-4) in Kenya. The team welcomes you at stand H3.05.
For more information:
Eliana Flowers
Christine Wanjiku
+254700850741
[email protected]
