As the New Year approaches, Türkiye is witnessing a growing demand for Butcher’s broom, locally known as “kokina,” believed to bring luck and prosperity. The plant has become a symbol of New Year’s festivities in recent years, capturing increasing interest and anticipation from the public.
Kokina flowers, deeply rooted in cultural significance, are becoming sought-after commodities, with citizens rushing to florists to secure these traditional New Year’s symbols. Kazım Kış, the president of the Izmir Florists Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the changing landscape, pointing out that social media has played a significant role in boosting interest in Butcher’s broom.
While the demand for kokina was minimal in the past, Kış reported a substantial surge in sales as the end of the month approaches. He anticipates a further increase in prices due to the dwindling supplies of Butcher’s broom.
Presently, prices for kokina flowers range from 125 to 150 Turkish Liras ($4 to $5). However, Kış cautioned that as supplies diminish, prices could soar to 200-250 liras, and there might even be a presence in the black market.
Kış explained the meticulous preparation process for the plant, noting, “Three years ago, no one knew what butcher’s broom was or its significance. After the announcement on social media that butcher’s broom brings luck, fortune, and prosperity, it began dominating sales during the New Year.”
He emphasized that the red berries on the branches are carefully prepared by sewing them with strings, and the preparation stage is quite challenging. Most of this process occurs in Istanbul, and the finished products are then brought to İzmir.
Addressing the surge in demand during special occasions like New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day, Kış highlighted the need for technological advancements in greenhouses. He mentioned that while Türkiye locally produces 65 to 67 percent of plants, outdated greenhouse technology in regions like the Menderes Basin affects production. Kış suggested that revising and modernizing greenhouses is essential for sustained and efficient plant production, as exemplified by the success in Antalya.
“The industry’s situation changes during special occasions, and when the weather gets cold, coupled with production challenges, prices rise. This affects both us and those who buy plants,” Kış concluded.
