Spain - The Best Plants to Grow in Your Garden
Spain’s diverse climate makes it a fascinating place for plant selection. The country spans USDA hardiness zones 8 through 10. However, these zones can differ greatly due to Spain’s range of geographical and climatic regions.
Spain can be divided into several climatic regions: Mediterranean, Semi-arid, Oceanic, and Continental. The Mediterranean region, which includes coastal areas, has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The Semi-arid region, mostly found in southeastern Spain, experiences very hot summers and cool winters with limited rainfall. The Oceanic region, mainly in northern Spain, has cooler summers and mild winters with high rainfall year-round. The Continental region, including central Spain, is characterized by hot summers and cold winters.
These differing climates have a substantial impact on plant selection. In the Mediterranean region, plants that tolerate dry, sunny conditions are popular choices, such as lavender, rosemary, olive trees, and citrus trees. Succulents and drought-resistant plants like Agave and Yucca also thrive in these conditions.
In the Semi-arid region, choose hardy, drought-tolerant plants. Spanish broom, rockrose, and native grasses can handle the extreme conditions.
The Oceanic region’s mild and moist climate allows for a broad range of plants. Camellias, hydrangeas, and ferns love the wet conditions, while the cooler weather suits many traditional English garden plants like roses, daisies, and delphiniums.
In the Continental region, hardy plants that can withstand the cold winters and hot summers are essential. Choices include sunflowers, hollyhocks, and many kinds of bulbs.
