Andalucia is host to a very rich variety of wildflowers in widely diverse habitats, some species growing nowhere else. Here we present a brief list of some of the more common wild flowers found in Andalucia.
The basic Mediterranean classics include bougainvillea, hibiscus, oleander, begonia, jasmine, succulents and pointed cypresses. These will grow virtually anywhere throughout the inland of Andalucia.
Did you know Andalucia is one of the most florally diverse regions in the world?
Shade is very important for you and your plants. Planting large trees is not a great idea unless you have a huge amount of space. Larger trees create larger roots, which use up all the water and nutrients in the soil, making it difficult to grow anything beneath them. There are plenty of small deciduous trees, which can be planted.
Soil
In the mountains of Andalucia slate and shale are the most common rocks and these decay to form barl. This type of clay is sticky, contains a lot of lime and, in Spain, also a high content of splintered rock. In these areas you will notice the large white cistus growing. Heavy clay can also be lightened by the addition of river gravel, which improves drainage and makes planting and weeding easier.
Old fincas in low lying areas tend to have soil which has been cultivated over the years and therefore is of better quality than properties situated in the hills. Low-lying coastal properties often built on sand will have the opposite of problems encountered with clay. Free-draining they need the addition of good-quality loam and humus to improve texture.
Fruits and Vegetables
A wonderful element of gardening in Andalucia is being able to grow your own fruit. Not only pears and apples, but oranges, lemons, apricots, mangoes, bananas, dates, figs and many others. Walnuts, pecans and almonds also grow well.
