Introduction to Chilean Peonies and Their Unique Requirements
Chilean peonies, described as a delicate and high-end seasonal flower by the Central Valley Peony Producers Association, are celebrating the opening of the Brazilian market after two years of collaboration with the Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG) of Brazil. The phytosanitary authorization, published in May of this year, allows for the first time direct exportation of the flower to Brazil, a strategic destination due to its favorable air logistics and proximity.
Unlike other more common floral species, peonies require a minimum of 500 hours of cold to develop. This is why they cannot be cultivated in tropical countries like Colombia and find a privileged ecosystem in southern Chile.
Chilean Peonies: A Luxury Product Competing with European Cultivation
María Consuelo Callejas, president of the gremio, explains: “Chilean peonies are a luxury flower capable of competing with European cultivation. Moreover, we produce during off-season, allowing us to reach the northern hemisphere just when they don’t have peonies.”
In 2024, Chile exported approximately 11.5 million peony stems worth nearly $18 million, primarily to the United States.
Expanding International Presence and Product Improvement
To avoid market saturation in the United States and broaden their international presence, the sector aims to enhance its product. With Brazil now accessible, efforts are expanding to Peru and Mexico, markets that already have phytosanitary protocols in place.
The leaders of the gremio have conducted technical and exploratory visits to both Peru and Mexico to understand the landscape and establish relationships with potential buyers.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are Chilean peonies? Chilean peonies are a high-end, seasonal flower grown in southern Chile, which requires at least 500 hours of cold to develop. They are described as delicate and luxurious, capable of competing with European cultivation.
- Why are Chilean peonies unique? Unlike other common floral species, peonies cannot be cultivated in tropical countries due to their cold requirement. Southern Chile provides the ideal ecosystem for growing these flowers.
- What markets are Chilean peonies targeting? Initially focusing on Brazil, the Chilean peony industry aims to expand its presence in Peru and Mexico, which already have established phytosanitary protocols.
- Why is expanding international presence important? To avoid market saturation in the United States and to capitalize on the high demand for unique, luxury flowers worldwide.
- How are Chilean peonies being improved? By focusing on off-season production, Chilean peonies can reach markets when they are in high demand, ensuring a competitive edge.
