In the province of Almería, the cultivation of ornamental aloe vera is emerging as a strategic alternative, focusing on specialization, quality, and environmental respect. This crop, with increasing demand in European markets, merges traditional wisdom with innovative approaches.
Plantas del Cabo, a company integrated into Plantaespaña, has developed a production model centered on high-end ornamental crops, with aloe vera as its main product. Driven by family tradition and the search for a crop adapted to Almería's climate, its founders, José Manuel Sánchez Marín and Belén Cruz Ríos, began this venture in the 1990s.
What started with research into specimens from old Almerian farmhouses, where aloe vera was part of popular knowledge, has transformed into a specialized operation. Currently, this species occupies most of their 10,000-square-meter high-tech greenhouse, positioning Plantas del Cabo as one of the few farms exclusively dedicated to this crop in the province.
The key to their success lies in meticulous production and planning. Using certified cuttings, they classify and homogenize plants to ensure specific formats and qualities. The growth cycle can range from five months to a year and a half. "Less is more. We prefer to produce fewer plants, but with extraordinary quality that allows us to differentiate ourselves in any market," states José Manuel Sánchez.
Their commercial strategy moves away from large volumes, opting for selective production aimed at garden centers and European markets that value high quality. Sustainability is a fundamental pillar, with rainwater reuse, solar panels, comprehensive waste recycling, and trials of peat-free substrates. Over 50% of their production holds organic certification, and they operate under zero-waste principles, without chemical pesticides.
Despite challenges, such as the floods in 2016 and 2019 that forced the relocation of their facilities, the company has shown resilience. Francisco Rubio, head of Plantaespaña, highlights that Plantas del Cabo "continues to champion a model based on professionalization, constant innovation, and environmental respect, demonstrating that specialization and excellence can become the best calling card for Almería's ornamental agriculture."
