Chrysanthemums Gain Ground in Kenya’s Flower Industry
Kenya’s chrysanthemum industry has recorded rapid growth, with production estimated to have doubled over the past four years to about 100 hectares and 200 million stems annually.
The figures were highlighted by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) in a July 2026 report on developments in the global chrysanthemum industry. The report said Kenya is emerging as a significant producer of the flower and is increasingly competing with established suppliers in the European Union market.
The growth comes as more Kenyan flower farms diversify beyond the country’s traditional dominance in roses. According to AIPH, six to eight Kenyan farms were considering adding chrysanthemums to their product portfolios following discussions at IFTEX 2026 in Nairobi.
Kenyan chrysanthemums are mainly being incorporated into bouquets packed at source, with the products destined particularly for the United Kingdom and continental Europe. This approach is also creating opportunities for more value addition within the country.
AIPH reported that investment in bouquet assembly facilities at farm level has increased, enabling growers to retain more value within Kenya. The development can also reduce dependence on Dutch flower auctions and improve margins across the local supply chain.
The growth of Kenya’s chrysanthemum segment is also being reflected in the emergence of new growers. Lachuta Farm, a chrysanthemum producer based in Nyeri, is expanding its presence in the Kenyan floriculture industry and has been developing its chrysanthemum assortment for international buyers. The farm presented its range at IFTEX 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen its market position.
Kenya’s emergence in chrysanthemums is significant because the crop has traditionally been strongly associated with established producers in Europe and Latin America. AIPH noted that the competition in the international chrysanthemum market is becoming increasingly intense, with Kenya now challenging the position of Dutch-grown chrysanthemums in the EU market.
The country’s expanding production therefore points to a broader shift in Kenya’s floriculture industry, as growers diversify their crop portfolios and seek opportunities to add value before flowers leave the country
