VIVERCID: A Triumph of Resilience and Growth

When one thinks of perseverance and vision in the horticultural world, the story of VIVERCID stands tall. This Valencian family business has nurtured plants for over 50 years and cultivated resilience, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to the green sector.

Founded by Salvador Magraner, VIVERCID began its operations by producing certified citrus plants for fruit growers. What started as a humble endeavour soon blossomed into a thriving enterprise, expanding to the cultivation of Mediterranean ornamental species. Today, under the stewardship of the second and third generations of the Magraner family, VIVERCID has become a cornerstone of the ornamental plant industry in Spain and Europe.

However, VIVERCID’s story is not just about growth but also about overcoming adversity. On 29 October 2024, the catastrophic DANA floods struck the Valencian region, which devastated homes, communities, and businesses. VIVERCID was among those deeply affected. Fields that once flourished with greenery were submerged, threatening the hard work of decades. Yet, the Magraner family and their dedicated team refused to be defeated. Drawing on their deep-rooted passion for the green sector and the support of their community, they embarked on a relentless journey of recovery.

“The floods tested us in ways we never imagined,” reflects Lara Magraner, owner of VIVERCID and Vice President of the Asociación de Cultivadores de Plantas Ornamentales (ACPO). “But they also strengthened our resolve to show the importance of what we do—not just for our livelihood but for the well-being of society,” she adds.

This resilience was paired with VIVERCID’s unwavering commitment to innovation and education. Over the years, the company has been a champion of informing and inspiring others about the significance of the green sector. Their work highlights the critical role plants play in creating a sustainable and healthier future.

The industry took notice on Tuesday, 28 January 2025, when VIVERCID was recognised as the Gold Winner of the AIPH International Grower of the Year 2025 Award in the Finished Plants & Trees category, presented by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH). The award was sponsored by Verticalle.

The AIPH Jury was equally impressed, noting: “VIVERCID is a great example of how a producer of a specialist crop can successfully progress to the production of a complete range of garden plants by developing both its range and the service it provides to customers.”

Despite the devastation, VIVERCID remains steadfast in its recovery, working tirelessly to rebuild and adapt. While repairing the nurseries, the company continues normal commercial activity, cultivating and potting plants, and is fully prepared for the upcoming spring sales. Ensuring market confidence is essential, and VIVERCID is ready to meet demand with the same quality and service its customers expect.

Their journey reminds us all that even in the face of immense challenges, growth—both in plants and spirit—is always possible.

Entry for AIPH International Grower of the Year 2026 is now open! Find more information and begin your entry here.