Since its acquisition in 2024 by the German group EW Group — a leader in animal genetics — Planasa has broadened its scope to include plant breeding, a natural extension for the group and a key step in consolidating its international footprint. Founded in 1973, Planasa began with white and green asparagus, later expanding its expertise to endives, strawberries, raspberries, garlic, blackberries, and, more recently since 2020, blueberries.
According to Manuel Garcés, Planasa’s Commercial Director, the company now produces over one billion young plants each year, shipped to more than 35 countries worldwide.
A Strong Presence in Southern Africa
During a field demonstration day held at Lebombo Cape Farm near Wellington in South Africa’s Western Cape region, Planasa presented its latest innovations and growth ambitions in Africa. The company’s in vitro plant cultures are produced in Spain, then multiplied in the Western Cape before being sent to the Mooketsi nursery in Limpopo province. The mild winter conditions in this area encourage strong root development, ensuring vigorous, high-quality young plants, delivered in pots of at least one liter. “This format allows us to guarantee the strength and growth potential of our plants from the moment they are transplanted into the field,” explains Garcés.
Four Flagship Varieties for Southern Africa
Of the six blueberry varieties developed by Planasa, four are currently available to growers in Southern Africa: Manila®, Madeira®, Maldiva®, and Malibu®. These are already cultivated throughout South Africa, as well as in Namibia and Zimbabwe. “We strongly believe in these four varieties and have no plans to discontinue them,” says Garcés, adding that new genetic selections are in development for future market releases.
Maldiva®: The Regional Benchmark
The Maldiva® variety has become Planasa’s flagship in Southern Africa. “It has everything producers are looking for — high yields, large fruit size, exceptional quality, and strong resilience under challenging conditions,” explains Pieter-Ernst Coetzee, Planasa’s Business Development Manager for the region. “It’s also easy to manage, especially after pruning, which makes it a highly profitable variety.” Maldiva® is harvested between June and September, following the early Manila® and preceding Madeira®, allowing growers to extend their production season. In Zimbabwe, Maldiva® accounts for nearly 80% of the harvest during this period. “With Maldiva®, Zimbabwe is very well positioned to export to the Chinese market, especially thanks to its jumbo-sized fruits,” adds Coetzee.
Agronomic Expertise and Ongoing Research
An agronomist by training, Pieter-Ernst Coetzee emphasizes the specific technical management required for new-generation varieties: “Avoid excessive pruning and pay close attention to potassium and calcium levels, which are essential to achieving optimal quality before flowering.” This technical approach, combined with Planasa’s advanced genetic research, aims to enhance the performance and sustainability of its varieties under African climatic conditions.
Logistics Trials Toward Europe
For 2025, Planasa plans to test maritime shipping of its varieties from South Africa to Europe — a key step in optimizing logistics, reducing transport costs, and maintaining post-harvest quality.
With this momentum, Planasa confirms its ambition to expand its footprint across Africa while strengthening its position as a global leader in fruit genetics, committed to a more efficient and sustainable agriculture.