The International Camellia Society

Spain Region

Directors:

Carmen Salinero Corrall

Rio Tambre 19A Caeria, Pontevedra

36005 Spain

Member representative :

Pilar Vela Fernández

Estación FIT, o  Areeiro

Pontevedra

36153 Spain 

Summary 

In Spain, camellias are grown in the north, mainly in the north west, in Galicia. Here can be found the fertile and acid soil as well as sufficient rainfall that is necessary for growing these plants. Hybrids based on the camellia species of C. japonica and C. sasanqua have thrived outside without needing a greenhouse; sometimes surviving many years of neglect.  

 The Camellia was introduced into Spain in the 19th century from Portugal and northern Europe. In the early days they were found mostly in Pazos, or ancestral palaces belonging to the Galician nobility, as they cost too much for most Spanish people.

The spread of camellia culture took place in the middle of the 20th century, when the first camellia exhibitions were held.  Nowadays, camellias can be seen growing in almost at every garden in Galicia.

Spain has been honoured by being chosen to host the 2014 International Camellia Society Congress, which will be held in Pontevedra in February 2014.