If you are looking for the most famous and popular types of trees in Spain, this article is for you. Through extensive research, we have compiled the top 10 most popular tree species in Spain in the following article!
Spain is a fortunate country with diverse climate zones, even within a small geographical area, there are distinct climate conditions. All of them are very mild, with some regions being warmer and others colder, and some areas experiencing more frequent rainfall while others have less rainfall, primarily during extended dry periods…
The unique climate conditions here contribute to a rich and diverse native plant species in Spain. The following article will provide you with the top ten famous and popular tree species in Spain today. Let’s have a look!
1. Carob Tree
Carob tree, scientifically known as Ceratonia silica, originates from the Mediterranean and is common in the Balearic Islands of Spain. Carob trees can grow up to 10 meters tall, with a strong and thick trunk that can reach a diameter of 1 meter. The leaves of the tree are usually dark green and can measure between 10 to 20 cm in length.
The fruit of the carob tree resembles a bean pod but is typically dark brown in color. Inside the fruit, there are pulp and seeds. This fruit is often considered a perfect substitute for chocolate in Spain.
2. Yew Tree
Yew Trees also known as the bald cypress, has the scientific name Glyptostrobus pensilis. It is another famous tree species that is widely cultivated in Spain. The cypress tree belongs to the group of coniferous plants, and the average height of a mature tree can range from 10 to 20 meters.
The trunk of the cypress tree is typically thick, with a trunk diameter that can reach up to 4 meters. Yew Trees are considered living fossils as they have been living on Earth for over 140 million years. The wood of this tree species holds significant economic value.
Yew Trees in Spain are often found naturally at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level, mainly in mountainous regions. This tree species is most commonly found in Asturias, Cantabria, Zamora, and the northern part of Mallorca.
3. Spruce Tree
Spruce tree, scientifically known as Abies alba, is found abundantly in Europe in general and specifically in Spain. The spruce tree belongs to the group of coniferous plants, with needle-like leaves that are typically green and measure 1.5 to 3 cm in length. Mature trees can reach heights ranging from 20 to 50 meters.
The trunk of the spruce tree is usually straight and columnar, with a trunk diameter that can reach up to 6 meters. Its leaves are straight and not sharp. In Spain, the spruce tree is most commonly found in the Pyrenees mountain range, growing at altitudes ranging from 700 to 2000 meters above sea level.
4. Chestnut Tree
Chestnut tree, also known as the sweet chestnut, has the scientific name Castanea Sativa. This tree species typically has a straight and thick trunk, with a mature tree reaching heights of up to 30 meters and a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. The crown of the chestnut tree is usually wide, formed by shiny, serrated leaves on the upper surface and hairy leaves on the lower surface. The chestnut leaves have an average size of 6 to 8 cm.
In Spain, the chestnut tree is commonly found in the northern region of the peninsula, particularly in the autonomous community of Galicia. Additionally, chestnut trees can be found in Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and the northern part of La Palma.
5. Aleppo Pine Tree
Aleppo pine tree, scientifically known as Pinus halepensis, belongs to the group of coniferous plants. Mature Aleppo pine trees can reach heights of up to 25 meters. The trunk of the Aleppo pine tree typically has a twisted shape, and its crown is often unevenly distributed and very dense.
The Aleppo pine tree originates from the eastern half of the Iberian Peninsula, as well as the Balearic Islands of Spain. This tree species is commonly found in areas with poor nutrient soil, harsh and prolonged drought conditions.
6. Mimosa Pigra Tree
Mimosa pigra can reach heights of up to 7 meters when fully grown. The leaves of the Mimosa pigra are usually bright green on the upper surface and dull underneath, ranging in size from 3 to 5 cm. The trunk of this tree is typically reddish-brown.
The Mimosa pigra originates from the Mediterranean region and is often found in mixed forests, on hillsides, or in oak forests in Spain. This tree species is currently at risk of extinction in Spain, and logging of the trees for timber is strictly prohibited.
7. Haya Tree
Haya tree, scientifically known as Fagus sylvatica, is a deciduous plant. The height of mature beech trees can range from 35 to 40 meters. Haya trees typically have a straight, non-branched trunk. The leaves of the beech tree are impressively green, sometimes with a hint of purple.
In Spain, Haya trees are commonly grown in the Cantabrian Mountains and the Pyrenees region. These areas provide suitable temperature conditions for the growth of haya trees, making it challenging for them to thrive in other regions.
8. Elm Tree
Elm Tree, scientifically known as Ulmus glabra, is also a distinctive tree found abundantly in the western part of Spain. The elm tree has a straight trunk and can reach a maximum height of 40 meters. The canopy of this tree species is dense, composed of simple leaves that grow alternately and tend to droop.
In Spain, the elm tree is most commonly found in the Catalan Pyrenees mountain range. Additionally, this tree species has been discovered in the autonomous communities of Galicia, Cantabria, Basque Country, Asturias, and Aragon.
9. Acer Opalus Tree
Acer opalus is one of the few native trees that originates from Spain. This tree can grow up to a height of 20 meters, with a trunk diameter of about 1 meter. The leaves of this tree are palmate in shape, glossy green in color, and tend to shed early. The length of the leaves can range from 7 to 13 cm, and the width from 5 to 16 cm.
The Acer opalus has two main subspecies: Acer opalus subsp opalus and Acer opalus subsp garnatense. While the subsp opalus thrives in the eastern half of the Spanish peninsula, the subsp garnatense is more prevalent in the northern region, particularly in the remote Aragon Pyrenees.
10. Carballo Oak Tree
Carballo Oak Tree, also known as the sessile oak or winter oak, has a scientific name Quercus robur. It is a deciduous tree that often grows to a tall height, with sizes exceeding 40 meters. The canopy of the carballo oak tree typically develops in an oval or round shape. Its leaves are usually alternate and green in color.
The carballo oak tree predominantly grows in the northern part of the Spanish peninsula. It is most commonly found in the premises of Casa de Campo Park, which has an elevation of up to 1000 meters above sea level. According to scientists, the carballo oak tree has been cultivated since ancient times in the capital city of Madrid, Spain, for several thousand years.
In summary, this compilation has presented ten famous and beautiful tree species in the region of Spain. The fascinating nature in this area is sure to provide exciting and surprising discoveries for visitors. Share this valuable knowledge with your loved ones and friends to explore the vibrant world of plants together!