History of Classiflora

Founded in 1979, Classiflora Imports Limited "CFI" has grown to become one of the UKs leading importers of hardy exterior European specimen plants, trees, shrubs and topiary. The extensive range of plants is individually selected from ten different European countries with a large proportion of the total offering sourced from the " Green Capital of Europe" , Pistoia - in particular Zelari Piante "Zelari" with whom CFI have enjoyed the benefits of a strong strategic alliance for many years.

Here, cultivation is carried out in open fields and conducted in accordance with modern techniques and is aimed at guaranteeing that the plants meet phytosantiary measures, minimising the risks involved in the transportation process. All our plants are well developed, homogeneous and stable, ideal both for direct planting and for pot labelling in nurseries.

Benito Castiglioni, Founder and Riccardo Castiglioni, Managing Director, have spearheaded the operation since inception and take full responsibility for the day to day activities overseeing all aspects of the business. Over the past 27 years they have enabled the company to achieve steady and controlled organic growth to a level where it now commands in excess of 7 acres of prime agricultural land and dedicated despatch facilities to service the nursery, garden centre, architectural, design and landscaping sectors.

From humble beginnings and with careful guidance the Company can now boast a headcount of 18 experienced and passionate personnel who over the years have facilitated in excess of £35m of domestic sales; over and above this there is also a dedicated team, in London, who oversee all the arrangements relating to the 'direct shipment' and 'fly-buy' offerings.

Comment from Riccardo:

"At Classiflora, we have a simple philosophy: we continually target and ultimately source quality stock from reliable, enthusiastic and established partners. Our years of experience have helped us refine this highly successful approach, creating a powerful and comprehensive range of acclimatised stock available in differing quantities 12 months of the year."