Florist Guide: The Most Famous Flowers Grown in Holland
Holland is synonymous with flowers, especially tulips, and is a global leader in floriculture. The Netherlands’ temperate climate, advanced greenhouse technology, and fertile soil allow for year-round production of high-quality flowers. Dutch flowers are renowned for their vibrant colors, long vase life, and consistent quality. This guide explores the most famous flowers grown in Holland, their characteristics, and tips for florists.
1. Tulips (Tulipa spp.)
Overview: Tulips are Holland’s signature flower and a symbol of Dutch horticulture. They are versatile and come in countless colors and varieties.
Regions: Grown mainly in Noord-Holland, Zuid-Holland, Flevoland, and Lisse (famous for the Keukenhof gardens).
Popular Colors: Red, yellow, white, purple, pink, and multicolor varieties.
Florist Tips:
Tulips continue to grow after being cut; use tall vases and allow space.
Cut stems at an angle and place in cold water to prolong vase life.
Combine with daffodils, hyacinths, or greenery for spring bouquets.
2. Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)
Overview: Daffodils are bright, cheerful spring flowers, commonly used in seasonal arrangements.
Regions: Predominantly grown in Noord-Holland and Flevoland.
Popular Colors: Yellow, white, and orange.
Florist Tips:
Keep daffodils in fresh water; change water frequently.
Avoid mixing with delicate flowers initially, as daffodils secrete a sap that can shorten the life of other blooms.
Perfect for spring bouquets, Easter arrangements, and cheerful centerpieces.
3. Hyacinths (Hyacinthus spp.)
Overview: Hyacinths are fragrant, colorful flowers that add texture and scent to arrangements.
Regions: Noord-Holland and Flevoland.
Popular Colors: Pink, purple, blue, white, and yellow.
Florist Tips:
Plant bulbs in pots for indoor displays or cut for bouquets.
Provide support for taller stems to prevent bending.
Combine with tulips or daffodils for vibrant spring displays.
4. Lilies (Lilium spp.)
Overview: Holland produces high-quality lilies with large, elegant blooms used in formal arrangements.
Regions: Mainly in North Brabant, South Holland, and Flevoland.
Popular Colors: White, orange, pink, yellow, and red.
Florist Tips:
Remove pollen to prevent staining.
Keep stems in clean water with floral preservatives.
Suitable for weddings, sympathy arrangements, and luxury bouquets.
5. Roses (Rosa spp.)
Overview: Dutch roses are prized for their uniform shape, long stems, and large blooms. Holland is one of Europe’s leading rose producers.
Regions: Greenhouse production is prominent in North Brabant and Westland.
Popular Colors: Red, pink, white, yellow, and cream.
Florist Tips:
Condition roses by cutting stems under water and keeping in floral preservative.
Combine with greenery or filler flowers for elegant bouquets.
Ideal for romantic and formal arrangements.
6. Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii)
Overview: Gerberas are cheerful, daisy-like flowers available in a wide spectrum of colors, perfect for modern bouquets.
Regions: Grown mainly in greenhouse regions like Westland.
Popular Colors: Red, orange, pink, yellow, white, and bi-color varieties.
Florist Tips:
Cut stems under water and remove lower leaves.
Keep in cool water to prolong vase life.
Great for bright, cheerful bouquets and contemporary arrangements.
7. Orchids (Orchidaceae)
Overview: Holland is known for greenhouse-grown orchids, especially Phalaenopsis, Cymbidium, and Dendrobium varieties.
Regions: Greenhouses across South Holland and North Brabant.
Popular Varieties: Phalaenopsis (moth orchids), Cymbidium, Dendrobium.
Florist Tips:
Keep orchids in indirect light and maintain humidity.
Handle gently; stems are delicate.
Perfect for luxury arrangements, potted gifts, and weddings.
Florist Best Practices for Dutch Flowers
Cold Chain Handling: Many Dutch flowers are exported; maintain cool storage (2–8°C for roses and tulips) to maximize longevity.
Stem Conditioning: Recut stems and remove damaged leaves before arranging.
Vase Preparation: Use clean water and floral preservatives to extend vase life.
Mixing Blooms: Dutch flowers are often mixed for texture, color, and seasonal appeal.
Sustainable Sourcing: Many Dutch growers use eco-friendly greenhouse practices, reducing water and pesticide use.
Hong Kong Florist recommended
The Netherlands is a flower powerhouse, with tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, lilies, roses, gerberas, and orchids defining its floriculture industry. Florists can leverage these high-quality, vibrant flowers to create stunning arrangements year-round. Proper care, handling, and combination of these flowers ensure long-lasting bouquets that captivate clients and enhance any floral display.
