From Colombian chrysanthemums and Ecuadorian roses to Dutch tulips and Italian ranunculus, meet some of the flowers associated with the countries competing on soccer’s biggest stage.
As countries take center stage during the FIFA World Cup™, we’re highlighting something we know a little more about: flowers.
Many of the nations competing on the field are also known for producing some of the world’s most recognized flowers. From Colombia’s chrysanthemums and Ecuador’s roses to the Netherlands’ tulips, these flowers have helped shape the global floral industry and continue to influence floral design today.
At Gardens America, international sourcing has been part of our story since 1969. As a third-generation family-owned floral importer, we work with trusted growers around the world to bring exceptional fresh-cut flowers to floral professionals throughout the United States.
So while soccer fans debate who has the strongest lineup, we’re taking a look at a different kind of roster: the flowers that have helped put some of the world’s leading floral-producing countries on the map.
Colombia: Chrysanthemums
When Gardens America was founded in 1969, chrysanthemums from Bogotá were among the first flowers imported by the company. More than five decades later, Colombia remains one of the world’s leading flower-producing countries and a key supplier to the U.S. market.
Known for their versatility, longevity and wide range of colors and varieties, chrysanthemums continue to be a staple for florists, event designers and retailers alike.
Position: Team captain. Dependable, versatile and always ready to perform.
Ecuador: Roses
Few flowers are as closely associated with a country as roses are with Ecuador. Thanks to the country’s high-altitude growing regions and ideal climate, Ecuadorian roses are known worldwide for their large bloom size, vibrant colors and exceptional vase life.
Today, Ecuador remains one of the most important rose-producing regions in the world and a leading source for premium roses used in weddings, events and everyday floral designs.
Position: Star striker. The flower everyone came to see.
The Netherlands: Tulips
Tulips and the Netherlands go hand in hand. While the country produces a wide range of flowers and plants, tulips have become an enduring symbol of Dutch horticulture and one of the most recognizable flowers worldwide.
Their popularity continues to make them a seasonal favorite among florists and consumers alike.
Position: Midfielder. Bringing color, creativity and balance to the lineup.
Italy: Ranunculus
Italy has become known for producing some of the world’s most sought-after ranunculus varieties. With their delicate layers of petals and romantic appearance, ranunculus have become a staple in weddings, events and luxury floral designs.
Their elegance and versatility have made them a favorite among designers around the world.
Position: The skilled playmaker. Stylish, elegant and impossible to overlook.
France: Garden Roses
France has long influenced the worlds of fashion, design and horticulture. Garden roses, known for their layered petals, fragrance and romantic appeal, are often associated with the timeless elegance that French gardens have become famous for.
Today, garden roses remain one of the most requested flowers for weddings and luxury floral arrangements.
Position: The veteran leader. A classic that never goes out of style.
Japan: Specialty Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums hold deep cultural significance in Japan and have been cultivated there for centuries. The flower is often associated with longevity, renewal and tradition, making it one of the country’s most recognized floral symbols.
Japanese influence has also helped shape floral design philosophies centered on balance, intention and craftsmanship.
Position: Defensive specialist. Precise, disciplined and admired around the world.
The Final Whistle
While fans around the world are focused on the action on the pitch, the floral industry has its own global lineup worth celebrating.
For more than 55 years, Gardens America has built relationships with growers around the world to bring exceptional fresh-cut flowers to floral professionals throughout the United States. Our sourcing network includes leading floral-producing regions such as Colombia, Ecuador, the Netherlands, Italy and beyond, providing access to a wide variety of flowers throughout the year.
What began in 1969 with the importation of chrysanthemums from Bogotá has grown into a third-generation family business built on trusted partnerships, global sourcing expertise and a commitment to helping floral professionals succeed.
No matter where a flower originates, every stem represents the expertise, care and dedication of the growers who make our industry possible. We’re proud to connect those growers with florists, designers, wholesalers and retailers across the country, delivering the quality, consistency and service our customers count on every season.
In the floral world, every country brings something unique to the field. And at Gardens America, we’re proud to help bring those flowers together.