With over 125 years of expertise, Hofland Flowering Plants has become a trusted name in ornamental horticulture. The family-run company from Naaldwijk is known for its craftsmanship, innovation, and commitment to sustainable growing. Its signature plant? The Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera) — a true symbol of quality and passion passed down through generations.
Over 125 years of craftsmanship in flowering plants
Hofland Flowering Plants has been an established name in floriculture for over 125 years. What started with gooseberries and currants in Naaldwijk has grown into a thriving family business that is now known for its flowering plants and, in particular, the Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera).
Annemiek Hofland explains:
“It was actually my grandfather Frans who laid the foundation. He discovered the Christmas cactus at a grower who was unable to make it work and decided to put his shoulder to the wheel and get the cultivation under control. He succeeded, and to this day, the Christmas cactus is our showpiece.”
A family business with vision
Today, the fifth generation is at the helm. Annemiek has been working with her brother for nine years now.
“To be honest, my father had his doubts about whether I should join the company, because we have the same personality,” smiles Annemiek. “But together with my brother Frank, I found the perfect balance. He takes care of the operational side, while I handle strategy and planning. That way, we complement each other.”
Wide and innovative range
In addition to lid cacti, Hofland Flowering Plants grows a wide range of flowering plants such as Dianthus, Calibrachoa, Argyranthemum, Bidens, Lobelia, Sanvitalia, Euphorbia and Scaveola. The company also produces a unique concept: Checkies, three plants in one pot.
“We listen carefully to our customers and follow trends. New crops such as Scaveola and Euphorbia received positive responses, and we immediately incorporated them into our range.”
Sustainable business in practice
Hofland Flowering Plants invests heavily in sustainability. A large proportion of the greenhouses run on geothermal energy, LED lighting is used extensively and irrigation water is recycled. Biological pest control already accounts for 60% of cultivation.
“Our ambition is clear,” says Annemiek. “We want to achieve 95% biological pest control. That’s exciting, but achievable in the long term. In addition, we separate more than twenty waste streams and have five MPS certificates. For us, sustainability is part of our daily practice, not just a nice promise.”
Collaboration with Floréac
The collaboration between Hofland Flowering Plants and Floréac goes back generations.
“My father already worked with Lisette van Floréac. We are continuing that partnership today. We solve problems together and celebrate successes together. For example, we recently launched a new line of 9 cm lid cacti in glass pots in various colours at Dobbies. Projects like this prove how valuable collaboration is.”
Looking to the future
For the future, Annemiek dreams of further steps in sustainability and of a sector that is once again seen in a positive light.
“The most important thing is to enjoy your work. It should give you energy rather than take it away. Ultimately, it’s all about passion for plants and for the people you work with.”
