Waxberries planted by Yang Zhongjing in Spain are ready for harvest. [Photo/Tide News]

Harvest season recently began for five waxberry trees planted in Bilbao, Spain, by Chinese expat Yang Zhongjing from Qingtian county, Lishui, Zhejiang province.

The vibrant red fruits adorning the branches are a delightful sight, prompting admiration from visitors to Yang's home, who never imagined waxberries could thrive in northern Spain.

"We've begun picking the fruits, saving most for personal consumption while also sharing this unique 'Chinese flavor' with Spanish friends and neighbors," said Yang proudly.

This sweet success story began 18 years ago when Yang received five waxberry saplings from relatives, sparking his venture into waxberry cultivation in Spain. Despite Bilbao's latitude of 43 degrees north, its temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild humidity and cool summers, provides an ideal environment for waxberries to grow, explained Yang.

After years of dedicated care, the trees bore fruit in their fifth year. While the initial yields were modest, they have since adapted to the new environment, resulting in a significant increase in yields in recent years.

"Each plump and sweet waxberry rivals the Dongkui waxberry from my hometown of Qingtian," Yang remarked. The sweet and tangy flavor of waxberries, reminiscent of home, is a cherished taste for overseas Chinese, which can now be enjoyed in Spain.