Ecuadorian flowers are celebrated for their vibrant diversity, thriving in the country’s equatorial climate and varied ecosystems, from Andean highlands to Amazonian rainforests. Renowned for their vivid colors and large blooms, they make Ecuador a global leader in floriculture, exporting to markets worldwide. These flowers bring tropical beauty and sustainability to gardens everywhere.
Deeply rooted in Ecuadorian culture, these blooms are featured in festivals, ceremonies, and daily life, often symbolizing love, joy, or resilience. Their cultivation, especially in regions like Cayambe, blends indigenous traditions with modern techniques, supporting local economies and showcasing the nation’s botanical heritage.
Growing these flowers is accessible due to their adaptability to warm, humid conditions. Most thrive in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade, requiring moderate watering and minimal pruning. Their versatility makes them ideal for both tropical and temperate garden designs.
Sustainability is a key strength, as these flowers support pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing biodiversity. Choosing them promotes eco-friendly gardening by reducing reliance on imported blooms, aligning with Ecuador’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
From lush jungle plots to urban terraces, Ecuadorian flowers inspire vibrant, resilient gardens that reflect the country’s natural splendor. Their exotic forms and rich hues evoke Ecuador’s landscapes, inviting gardeners to connect with its flourishing floral legacy.
Ecuadorian Flowers
Ecuadorian Rose (Rosa spp.)
- Description: Renowned as the world’s finest, Ecuadorian roses boast large, vibrant blooms in over 500 varieties, including red, pink, and rainbow hues, grown in the Andes for their long vase life.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. Space 3 feet apart and prune annually. Ideal for USDA zones 5-9.
Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus)
- Description: These long-lasting flowers in red, white, or pink are a staple in Ecuador’s exports, symbolizing love and admiration, grown in high-altitude regions like Cayambe.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and deadhead regularly. USDA zones 5-9.
Alstroemeria (Alstroemeria spp.)
- Description: Known as Peruvian lily, these blooms in pink, yellow, or red feature delicate, streaked petals and symbolize friendship, popular in Ecuador’s floral trade.
- Growing Tips: Plant tubers in spring in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart. USDA zones 7-10.
Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum spp.)
- Description: Vibrant blooms in white, yellow, or purple, chrysanthemums are valued for their durability and are widely exported from Ecuador for festive arrangements.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with fertile soil. Space 18 inches apart and pinch back for bushiness. USDA zones 5-9.
Gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata)
- Description: Also called baby’s breath, these delicate white or pink blooms are used as fillers in bouquets, grown in Ecuador’s highlands since the 1950s.
- Growing Tips: Sow seeds in spring in full sun with well-drained, alkaline soil. Space 12 inches apart. USDA zones 3-9.
Orchid (Orchidaceae spp.)
- Description: Ecuador, with over 4,000 orchid species, exports vibrant varieties like Phalaenopsis, symbolizing luxury and beauty, thriving in its diverse microclimates.
- Growing Tips: Plant in well-drained bark in partial shade with high humidity. Water weekly. USDA zones 10-12.
Lilium (Lilium spp.)
- Description: Large, fragrant lilies in white, orange, or pink are grown in Ecuador’s fertile volcanic soils, symbolizing purity and renewal.
- Growing Tips: Plant bulbs in fall in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart. USDA zones 4-9.
Heliconia (Heliconia spp.)
- Description: Known as lobster claw, these tropical red or yellow blooms resemble bird beaks, adding exotic flair to Ecuador’s Amazonian gardens.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun to partial shade with rich, moist soil. Space 3 feet apart. USDA zones 9-11.
Aster (Aster spp.)
- Description: Star-shaped flowers in purple, blue, or white, asters are grown in Ecuador for their vibrant color and use in mixed bouquets.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart and deadhead to extend blooms. USDA zones 3-8.
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
- Description: Bright yellow blooms grown in Ecuador’s sunny regions symbolize happiness and are used in bold, cheerful arrangements.
- Growing Tips: Sow seeds in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart. USDA zones 2-11.
Statice (Limonium sinuatum)
- Description: Also known as sea lavender, these papery purple or white blooms are popular in dried arrangements, grown in Ecuador’s coastal areas.
- Growing Tips: Sow seeds in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart. USDA zones 8-10.
Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.)
- Description: Feathery, red or purple flower heads, amaranth grows in Ecuador’s highlands and is valued for its ornamental and edible qualities.
- Growing Tips: Sow seeds in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart. USDA zones 2-11.
Rice Flower (Ozothamnus diosmifolius)
- Description: Clusters of tiny white or pink blooms, rice flowers are used as fillers in Ecuadorian bouquets, adding texture and delicate charm.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained, sandy soil. Space 2 feet apart and prune lightly. USDA zones 9-11.
Delphinium (Delphinium spp.)
- Description: Tall spikes of blue, purple, or white blooms, delphiniums add dramatic height to Ecuadorian gardens and symbolize aspiration.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with rich, well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart and stake for support. USDA zones 3-7.
Zinnia (Zinnia elegans)
- Description: Bright, long-lasting flowers in red, pink, or yellow, zinnias thrive in Ecuador’s sunny regions, attracting pollinators and adding vibrancy.
- Growing Tips: Sow seeds in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and deadhead regularly. USDA zones 3-10.
Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus)
- Description: Airy, daisy-like blooms in pink, white, or purple, cosmos bring delicate charm to Ecuadorian wildflower gardens, symbolizing harmony.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with moderately fertile soil. Space 12 inches apart. Drought-tolerant. USDA zones 2-11.
17. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
- Description: Spikes of pink, white, or yellow flowers, snapdragons add playful structure to Ecuadorian borders and symbolize grace.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and pinch for bushiness. USDA zones 7-10.
Verbena (Verbena spp.)
- Description: Clusters of tiny purple, pink, or white flowers, verbena adds delicate beauty to Ecuadorian gardens, attracting butterflies.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and water moderately. USDA zones 7-11.
Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
- Description: Bright orange or yellow blooms, marigolds are grown in Ecuador for their pest-repelling properties and vibrant color.
- Growing Tips: Sow in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and deadhead regularly. USDA zones 2-11.
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
- Description: Edible, peppery flowers in orange, yellow, or red, nasturtiums thrive in Ecuadorian kitchen gardens, repelling pests.
- Growing Tips: Sow in spring in full sun with poor to average soil. Space 12 inches apart. Avoid over-fertilizing. USDA zones 2-11.
Geranium (Pelargonium spp.)
- Description: Hardy red, pink, or white blooms, geraniums are staples in Ecuadorian patios for their durability and cheerful color.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and pinch back. USDA zones 3-8.
Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)
- Description: Large, vibrant blooms in blue, pink, or purple, varying with soil pH, hydrangeas are grown in Ecuador’s highlands for export.
- Growing Tips: Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Space 3 feet apart. USDA zones 6-9.
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
- Description: Striking orange and blue blooms resembling a bird’s head, these tropical flowers add bold elegance to Ecuador’s gardens.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun to partial shade with rich, moist soil. Space 3 feet apart. USDA zones 9-11.
Passionflower (Passiflora spp.)
- Description: Intricate, exotic blooms in purple or blue, these vines thrive in Ecuador’s tropics, symbolizing faith and resilience.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Provide a trellis and space 4 feet apart. USDA zones 6-10.
Canna Lily (Canna indica)
- Description: Bold red, orange, or yellow blooms on tall stalks, canna lilies add dramatic height to Ecuadorian tropical gardens.
- Growing Tips: Plant rhizomes in spring in full sun with rich, moist soil. Space 2 feet apart. USDA zones 7-10.
Phlox (Phlox paniculata)
- Description: Clusters of pink, purple, or white flowers, phlox bring long-lasting color to Ecuadorian summer gardens and attract pollinators.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart and deadhead. USDA zones 4-8.
Flamingo Flower (Anthurium andraeanum)
- Description: Heart-shaped, waxy red or pink blooms, flamingo flowers add tropical elegance to Ecuador’s gardens, prized for their longevity.
- Growing Tips: Plant in partial shade with well-drained, organic soil. Keep moist and humid. Space 12 inches apart. USDA zones 10-12.
Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
- Description: Large, vibrant blooms in red, pink, or yellow, hibiscus thrive in Ecuador’s warm regions, symbolizing beauty and hospitality.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with moist, well-drained soil. Space 3 feet apart and prune for shape. USDA zones 9-11.
Agapanthus (Agapanthus africanus)
- Description: Clusters of blue or white trumpet-shaped flowers, agapanthus add structure to Ecuadorian gardens and symbolize love.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart. USDA zones 8-10.
Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis)
- Description: Vivid pink, purple, or red bracts cascade over Ecuadorian walls, adding Mediterranean charm and symbolizing passion.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 6 feet apart. USDA zones 9-11.
Torch Ginger (Etlingera elatior)
- Description: Vibrant red or pink waxy blooms on tall stalks, torch ginger brings tropical flair to Ecuador’s rainforest gardens.
- Growing Tips: Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Space 4 feet apart. USDA zones 10-12.
Aster (Symphyotrichum spp.)
- Description: Star-shaped purple or white blooms, asters are grown in Ecuador’s highlands for their vibrant color in bouquets.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart and deadhead to extend blooms. USDA zones 3-8.
Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus)
- Description: Fragrant, climbing blooms in pink, purple, or white, sweet peas add romance to Ecuadorian trellises, symbolizing gratitude.
- Growing Tips: Sow in early spring in full sun to partial shade with rich soil. Space 8 inches apart with support. USDA zones 2-11.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Description: Fragrant purple spikes, lavender is cultivated in Ecuador’s cooler regions for its scent and pollinator attraction.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with sandy, well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart and prune annually. USDA zones 5-9.
Salvia (Salvia splendens)
- Description: Spikes of red, purple, or white flowers, salvia adds bold color to Ecuadorian gardens and attracts hummingbirds.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and deadhead regularly. USDA zones 8-10.
Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus)
- Description: Bright blue wildflowers, cornflowers are grown in Ecuador for their vibrant hue and use in mixed arrangements.
- Growing Tips: Sow seeds in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart. Low-maintenance. USDA zones 2-11.
Gladiolus (Gladiolus spp.)
- Description: Tall spikes of red, pink, or white flowers, gladiolus add dramatic height to Ecuadorian gardens, symbolizing strength.
- Growing Tips: Plant corms in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 6 inches apart and stake. USDA zones 7-10.
Dahlia (Dahlia spp.)
- Description: Large, vibrant blooms in various colors, dahlias are grown in Ecuador’s highlands for their ornamental beauty.
- Growing Tips: Plant tubers in spring in full sun with fertile soil. Space 12 inches apart and stake taller varieties. USDA zones 8-10.
Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum)
- Description: Rose-like blooms in purple, white, or pink, lisianthus are prized in Ecuador’s exports for their elegance and long vase life.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and keep soil moist. USDA zones 8-10.
Delphinium (Delphinium spp.)
- Description: Tall spikes of blue, purple, or white blooms, delphiniums add dramatic height to Ecuadorian gardens and symbolize aspiration.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with rich, well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart and stake for support. USDA zones 3-7.
Zinnia (Zinnia elegans)
- Description: Bright, long-lasting flowers in red, pink, or yellow, zinnias thrive in Ecuador’s sunny regions, attracting pollinators and adding vibrancy.
- Growing Tips: Sow seeds in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and deadhead regularly. USDA zones 3-10.
Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus)
- Description: Airy, daisy-like blooms in pink, white, or purple, cosmos bring delicate charm to Ecuadorian wildflower gardens, symbolizing harmony.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with moderately fertile soil. Space 12 inches apart. Drought-tolerant. USDA zones 2-11.
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
- Description: Spikes of pink, white, or yellow flowers, snapdragons add playful structure to Ecuadorian borders and symbolize grace.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and pinch for bushiness. USDA zones 7-10.
Verbena (Verbena spp.)
- Description: Clusters of tiny purple, pink, or white flowers, verbena adds delicate beauty to Ecuadorian gardens, attracting butterflies.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and water moderately. USDA zones 7-11.
Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
- Description: Bright orange or yellow blooms, marigolds are grown in Ecuador for their pest-repelling properties and vibrant color.
- Growing Tips: Sow in spring in full sun with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and deadhead regularly. USDA zones 2-11.
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
- Description: Edible, peppery flowers in orange, yellow, or red, nasturtiums thrive in Ecuadorian kitchen gardens, repelling pests.
- Growing Tips: Sow in spring in full sun with poor to average soil. Space 12 inches apart. Avoid over-fertilizing. USDA zones 2-11.
Geranium (Pelargonium spp.)
- Description: Hardy red, pink, or white blooms, geraniums are staples in Ecuadorian patios for their durability and cheerful color.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Space 12 inches apart and pinch back. USDA zones 3-8.
Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)
- Description: Large, vibrant blooms in blue, pink, or purple, varying with soil pH, hydrangeas are grown in Ecuador’s highlands for export.
- Growing Tips: Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Space 3 feet apart. USDA zones 6-9.
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
- Description: Striking orange and blue blooms resembling a bird’s head, these tropical flowers add bold elegance to Ecuador’s gardens.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun to partial shade with rich, moist soil. Space 3 feet apart. USDA zones 9-11.
Passionflower (Passiflora spp.)
- Description: Intricate, exotic blooms in purple or blue, these vines thrive in Ecuador’s tropics, symbolizing faith and resilience.
- Growing Tips: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Provide a trellis and space 4 feet apart. USDA zones 6-10.
Canna Lily (Canna indica)
- Description: Bold red, orange, or yellow blooms on tall stalks, canna lilies add dramatic height to Ecuadorian tropical gardens.
- Growing Tips: Plant rhizomes in spring in full sun with rich, moist soil. Space 2 feet apart. USDA zones 7-10.
Phlox (Phlox paniculata)
- Description: Clusters of pink, purple, or white flowers, phlox bring long-lasting color to Ecuadorian summer gardens and attract pollinators.
- Growing Tips: Plant in spring in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Space 18 inches apart and deadhead. USDA zones 4-8.