The flower market in Plaza de las Flores, located in the heart of
Cuenca’s historic center, is a vibrant and aromatic gem that enchants locals
and visitors alike.
Nestled beside the Marian Shrine of Carmen of the Assumption, this open-air
market is a daily celebration of color and fragrance. Dozens of stalls
overflow with fresh roses, orchids, lilies, and native blooms, creating a
kaleidoscope of petals that transforms the plaza into a living canvas. The
market’s charm lies not only in its visual appeal but also in its
atmosphere—warm, welcoming, and steeped in tradition.
Recognized by National Geographic as one of the top ten outdoor flower
markets in the world, Plaza de las Flores is more than a commercial
space; it’s a cultural landmark. The vendors, many of whom have sold flowers
here for generations, greet customers with genuine hospitality and deep
knowledge of their floral offerings. The market’s location, surrounded by
architectural treasures like the Iglesia del Carmen and the Catedral de
la Inmaculada Concepción, adds a layer of historical richness to the
experience. Whether you're buying a bouquet or simply strolling through, the
market offers a sensory immersion into Cuenca’s soul.
Beyond its beauty, the flower market plays a subtle role in local spiritual
life. The cloistered Carmelite nuns of the adjacent convent prepare
Agua de Pítimas, a calming herbal infusion made from flowers and
medicinal plants, which is sold in nearby shops. This blend of commerce,
devotion, and artistry makes Plaza de las Flores a unique
destination—where the sacred and the everyday coexist in harmony. It’s a place
where petals speak louder than words, and every bloom tells a story of
Cuenca’s enduring grace.
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Red and blue roses
Ecuador is one of the world’s leading
producers of roses, thanks to its unique geographic and climatic
conditions.
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The country’s rose farms are typically located at high
altitudes—between 2,800 and 3,000 meters—where the combination of
equatorial sunlight, cool temperatures, and rich volcanic soil creates
ideal growing conditions. These factors contribute to the development
of long stems, large buds, and vibrant colors, making Ecuadorian roses
highly sought after in international markets. Over 74% of Ecuador’s
cut flower exports are roses, with major destinations including the
United States, Europe, and Russia.
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The production process is meticulous and technologically advanced.
Roses are cultivated with careful attention to irrigation,
fertilization, and pest control. Once harvested at peak maturity, they
are immediately placed in treated water, sorted by quality and size,
and packaged in refrigerated conditions to preserve freshness. Farms
like those in Cotopaxi and Pichincha provinces are constantly
innovating, introducing new varieties and improving logistics to meet
global demand. Ecuador’s rose industry supports thousands of jobs and
has become a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy.
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Despite competition from other flower-exporting nations like Colombia
and Kenya, Ecuador maintains a strong position due to its consistent
quality and variety. More than 60 rose varieties are grown, ranging
from classic reds to exotic tinted designs. The industry has also
adapted to changing market dynamics, including shifts in demand and
geopolitical challenges. Ecuadorian roses are often exported under FOB
terms from Quito, ensuring timely delivery and optimal condition upon
arrival.
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At the flower market in Plaza de las Flores, red and blue roses
stand out among the dazzling array of blooms. The red roses, with
their deep, velvety petals, are a timeless symbol of love and passion,
while the blue roses—often tinted to achieve their surreal hue—add a
touch of mystery and modern flair. These roses are carefully arranged
by local vendors who take pride in showcasing Ecuador’s floral
excellence. Whether naturally grown or artistically enhanced, the
roses at this market reflect the country’s mastery in floriculture and
its flair for captivating the senses.
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Sunflowers
Sunflower production in Ecuador is modest
compared to its dominant floriculture sectors like roses and orchids.
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The country produces a small quantity of sunflower seeds—about 0.223
kilotons in 2022—which marks a decline from previous years and
reflects its limited role in the national agricultural landscape.
Historically, sunflower cultivation peaked in the early 1990s but has
since fluctuated, with production often influenced by market demand,
climate conditions, and competition from imported seeds. Ecuador’s
mountainous terrain and equatorial climate are more favorable to
ornamental flowers than oilseed crops, which partly explains the
limited expansion of sunflower farming.
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Despite its small-scale production, Ecuador imports a significant
volume of sunflower seeds, primarily for consumption and agricultural
use. In 2023, the country imported over $5.5 million worth of
sunflower seeds, with the United States and Argentina being the top
suppliers. These imports support domestic needs for cooking oil,
livestock feed, and seed stock for limited local cultivation. The
disparity between imports and exports highlights Ecuador’s reliance on
foreign sources to meet its sunflower-related demands, and suggests
that sunflower farming remains a niche activity rather than a
strategic agricultural focus.
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There is, however, potential for growth in sunflower production,
especially in regions with suitable soil and climate conditions. As
global interest in sustainable and diverse crop systems increases,
Ecuador could explore sunflower cultivation as part of broader
agroecological initiatives. The crop’s resilience and versatility make
it a candidate for diversification, particularly in areas where
traditional flower farming is not viable. With proper investment and
research, sunflowers could play a more prominent role in Ecuador’s
agricultural future, albeit still secondary to its world-renowned
ornamental flower industry.
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The flower market in Plaza de las Flores is a sensory delight
and cultural treasure. Located in the city’s historic center, it
features a dazzling array of blooms—roses, orchids, lilies, and even
sunflowers—arranged by vendors who often wear traditional attire and
Panama hats. The market is framed by architectural landmarks like the
Iglesia del Carmen and the New Cathedral, adding historical
depth to its vibrant atmosphere. Recognized by National Geographic as
one of the top ten outdoor flower markets in the world, it’s not just
a place to buy flowers but a living expression of Cuenca’s artistry,
spirituality, and community spirit.
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White roses with red tips
White roses with red tips are
among the most striking varieties cultivated in Ecuador’s high-altitude
rose farms.
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These bi-colored blooms are typically created through selective
breeding and, in some cases, post-harvest tinting techniques that
enhance or modify the petal edges. Ecuador’s equatorial location and
mountainous terrain provide ideal conditions for rose cultivation:
consistent 12-hour daylight, cool nights, and nutrient-rich volcanic
soil. These factors contribute to the development of large, vibrant
blooms with long stems and thick petals—perfect for showcasing
dramatic color contrasts like white with red tips.
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The production process begins in greenhouses where roses are carefully
monitored for irrigation, pest control, and temperature regulation.
Breeders often experiment with hybridization to achieve unique color
combinations, and white roses with red tips are especially popular in
markets that favor bold, romantic aesthetics. After harvesting, the
roses are sorted, graded, and packaged under strict quality controls.
Farms near Cayambe and Cotopaxi are known for producing dozens of rose
varieties, and many have earned global certifications for sustainable
practices, ensuring that beauty doesn’t come at the cost of
environmental or social responsibility.
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These roses are exported worldwide, with different markets favoring
different stem lengths and color intensities. While North American
buyers often seek classic red or pastel tones, countries like China
and Russia show strong demand for vivid, multi-colored roses—including
bi-toned varieties like white with red tips. Ecuadorian producers
respond to these preferences with precision and creativity, making the
country a leader in the global floriculture industry. The appeal of
these roses lies not only in their visual impact but also in the
craftsmanship and care behind each bloom.
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The flower market in Plaza de las Flores is a sensory haven
where Ecuador’s floral artistry comes to life. Located between the
Iglesia del Carmen and the New Cathedral, this historic plaza
bursts with color and fragrance from dawn to dusk. Vendors, many
dressed in traditional attire, offer roses, orchids, lilies, and
sunflowers in dazzling arrangements. Recognized by National Geographic
as one of the top ten outdoor flower markets in the world, it’s more
than a place to buy flowers—it’s a cultural landmark where beauty,
tradition, and community spirit flourish together.
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Bouquet with assorted roses|
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White roses and white roses with red tips
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Orange lily
Orange lilies (Lilium bulbiferum L.),
also known as fire lilies, are not widely cultivated in Ecuador compared
to the country’s dominant rose and orchid industries.
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Native to Europe, these striking perennials are valued for their vivid
orange blooms and upright growth habit. In Ecuador, ornamental lilies
are typically grown in smaller quantities, often by boutique
floriculturists or local gardeners who cater to domestic markets and
specialty flower shops. Their cultivation requires well-drained soil,
moderate watering, and protection from pests like the red lily beetle,
making them more labor-intensive than some other cut flowers.
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The climate in Ecuador’s highland regions, with cool nights and
consistent daylight, can support lily cultivation, though
Lilium bulbiferum is more sensitive to soil composition and
drainage than roses. Growers often plant these lilies in containers or
raised beds to manage moisture levels and avoid root rot. Propagation
is usually done through bulb division or bulbils that form in leaf
axils, though flowering from bulbils can take several years. Because
of their bold color and symbolic associations with energy and
confidence, orange lilies are popular in floral arrangements for
festive occasions and are sometimes featured in religious or cultural
ceremonies.
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While Ecuador does not export orange lilies at the scale of its roses,
they contribute to the country’s rich tapestry of floral diversity.
Local growers may offer them seasonally at regional markets or through
direct-to-consumer sales. Their presence in Ecuador’s floriculture
scene reflects a growing interest in diversifying beyond traditional
exports and embracing more niche, visually impactful blooms. With
proper care and marketing, orange lilies could become a more prominent
feature in Ecuador’s ornamental flower offerings.
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The flower market in Plaza de las Flores is a radiant showcase
of Ecuador’s floral artistry. Located between the
Iglesia del Carmen and the New Cathedral, this historic plaza
bursts with color and fragrance, offering roses, orchids, lilies, and
seasonal blooms like sunflowers and orange lilies. Vendors, often
dressed in traditional attire, arrange their flowers with care and
pride, creating a sensory experience that blends beauty, culture, and
community. Recognized by National Geographic as one of the top ten
outdoor flower markets in the world, it remains a beloved destination
for both locals and visitors seeking a touch of Cuenca’s timeless
charm.
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Indigenous florist
Flower production in Ecuador plays a
vital role in the livelihoods of many indigenous communities, especially
in the Andean highlands where most flower farms are located.
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These regions, rich in volcanic soil and blessed with consistent
daylight, offer ideal conditions for cultivating roses and other cut
flowers. For indigenous families living in rural areas, the flower
industry provides one of the few stable sources of employment. It’s
estimated that over 48,000 Ecuadorians work in floriculture, with a
significant portion being indigenous women who benefit from fair trade
initiatives that promote equitable wages, maternity leave, and safer
working conditions.
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Despite its economic benefits, the flower industry has also introduced
tensions within indigenous communities. Large-scale farms often
compete for natural resources like irrigation water, and the use of
agrochemicals has raised concerns about environmental degradation and
health risks. Many of these farms are owned and managed by urban
outsiders, creating a stark contrast between the high-tech greenhouses
and the surrounding peasant communities. This dynamic has led to
struggles over land use, labor demands, and cultural identity, as
indigenous groups seek to maintain autonomy while participating in a
globalized economy.
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Nonetheless, the flower industry has become a platform for empowerment
and development. Organizations like the Santiago Partnership have
launched initiatives such as Forever Flowers to support indigenous
workers and promote sustainable practices. Certification programs like
Flor Ecuador and Fairtrade have helped improve labor standards and
environmental stewardship, offering indigenous populations a more
dignified and secure role in the sector. As Ecuador continues to
expand its floriculture exports, the inclusion and protection of
indigenous communities remain essential to ensuring that growth is
both equitable and sustainable.
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The flower market in Plaza de las Flores is a vibrant and
culturally rich space that reflects the heart of the city’s
traditions. Nestled between historic landmarks like the
Iglesia del Carmen and the New Cathedral, the market bursts
with color and fragrance, offering roses, orchids, lilies, and
seasonal blooms. Vendors, many of whom wear traditional attire, create
stunning arrangements that attract both locals and tourists.
Recognized by National Geographic as one of the top ten outdoor flower
markets in the world, Plaza de las Flores is more than a
commercial hub—it’s a living expression of Cuenca’s heritage and
community spirit.
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Bouquets of roses of various colors
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See Also
Source
Location
La Merced Misioneros Oblatos Church
Marian Shrine of Carmen of the Assumption
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception