Prickly favourites at the Collectable Plant Fair. Credit: Ayuntamiento de Benalmadena
Green fingers across Spain and beyond can look forward to a vibrant celebration of rare and exotic flora this spring. Organisers have confirmed the return of the popular event to the Costa del Sol, building on last year’s record success.
Record-breaking 2025 edition sets high expectations
Last year’s fair drew thousands to Parque de la Paloma. Attendees explored bonsai demonstrations by masters Miguel Ángel González and Antonio Ponce, hands-on workshops, and diverse stalls featuring miniature succulents, aromatic herbs, and exotic water lilies. Increased exhibitors transformed the gathering into a national and international reference point for plant collectors, professionals, and novices.
Unique setting really makes the 2026 experience
Being held in Benalmadena, Parque de la Paloma, the park will give over an incomparable backdrop with its 100,000 square metres of green space. Home to over 90 palm species, extensive bamboo collections, aquatic plants, and one of Europe’s finest open-air cactus and succulent displays covering 6,000 square metres, the park invites exploration of its rich biodiversity.
Diverse activities and workshops await visitors
Workshops and events will take place in the fairground’s Zona E without prior registration. Highlights include the XXXVII Spring Bonsai Exhibition from Friday 3 April, 10am to 2pm. Participants can join the Bonsai Workshop for All on Friday or the Children’s Bonsai Workshop on Saturday. Simultaneous demonstrations feature experts Miguel Ángel González and Antonio Ponce on Saturday afternoon, with Francisco Barranquero leading on Sunday morning.
A guided botanical walk through the park starts at 11am on Saturday, led by Professor José García Berenguer, co-author of the ornamental flora guide.
Exhibits feature wide array of rare collector plants.
Attendees will discover thousands of specimens across three days from April 3 to 5. Stalls will be showing off and selling cacti, succulents, tropical and subtropical varieties, bulbs, caudex plants, palms, aromatics, culinary and medicinal herbs, bromeliads, orchids, fruit trees, bamboos, fungi, mosses, lichens, ferns, and more. Related accessories and plant-inspired crafts complete the offerings. Entry remains free, along with the exhibition, sales, and exchanges for registered participants.
With growing international appeal, the 19th year promises even more exhibitors and inspiration. Mark the dates in the diary for an unforgettable botanical weekend on the Costa del Sol. The 19th Collectable Plant Fair will be on from Friday, April 3 to Sunday, April 5 in the Parque de la Paloma, Benalmadena.
