Shanghai

Flowers lovers gather at Hongqiao Flower Market in downtown Shanghai, where the city's wholesale center for flowers attracts more than 100 floral designers, suppliers and retailers. On Hongjin Road in Minhang district, the flower market is easily accessible from major freeways and only minutes from Hongqiao airport and the suburbs.

Hongqiao Flower Market covers 23,000 square meters and is one of the most exotic floral trading places in east China. Fresh cut flowers and greenery, as well as dried floral products and garden accessories, compete for attention.

Unlike many flower markets that cater primarily to florists, Hongqiao is also open to the public. By offering customers flowers at wholesale price, it attracts many local residents.

Seasonal flowers make the best displays, and as spring arrives you can find small peonies and tulips crowding the stalls.

Shen Ling, 38, runs a flower shop here. She says that the tulips are all imported from the Netherlands. They sell very well, Shen says, especially for expatriates.

As the weather warms, the popular larger peonies will be on sale. Flower lovers are also attracted to the pots of orchids, in all different price ranges. Customers can opt for well-designed arrangements and ask the shopkeeper to put together interesting groups, according to their color preferences and how much they are willing to pay.

Potted plants range from guinea chestnut to Brazilwood trees and cycad pots.

Small potted plants for the table are popular among office workers.

Most shops provide free delivery when purchases exceed 100 yuan. The market has a carpark for those who want to take their pots home in their own cars.

China Daily