Beijing has become the largest flower consumer in China. Latest statistics show that the city has spent more than 4 billion yuan (US$493 million) on flowers in 2005, among which Beijing residents' spending reached 1.2 billion yuan.

According to latest statistics in the survey report on demands and industrial development of Beijing flower markets, over 80 percent of Beijing dwellers are willing to buy flowers and do not hesitate to splurge on them. Beijing's per capita spending on flowers rose from 310 yuan to 348 yuan, and most buyers are in the age bracket of 30 to 50. Those with higher income and educational levels spend more on flowers.

The survey reflects that more than 60 percent of Beijing citizens buy flowers in flower markets; florists and booths in the streets are their second choices. Roses, lilies and carnations are the favorite flowers, with the purchase volume exceeding 40 percent.

Green plants such as Chinese green, spider plant and Pachira aquatica are also quite popular. More than 50 percent of residents buy flowers to decorate their houses, 39 percent are fond of planting flowers and 34 percent enhance festive atmosphere with flowers.

The survey also shows that Beijing people purchase more flower year by year, spending 3.812 billion yuan on flowers in 2004 and 4 billion yuan in 2005, and flower supply and demand hit 450 million.

(Chinanews.cn January 6, 2006)