FUORI*ORTICOLARIO 2025
Natale in serra.
La bottega di Orticolario
(Christmas in the greenhouse. Orticolario's "Bottega")
There’s a hint of snow in the air, a delicate scent of spiced sweets, the cold tickles your nose, and the days grow shorter and shorter. Winter is approaching, bringing with it a festive atmosphere.
On the occasion of “Il Natale che unisce, Cernobbio e le sue frazioni in festa“, Orticolario moves outside the grounds of Villa Erba with a special greenhouse: Camellia grijsii and Camellia sasanqua ‘Yuletide’ for sale alongside the Botega’s most beloved products – from scented candles to personalized notebooks, and of course the iconic tote bag.
Proceeds from sales are donated to the Fondo Amici di Orticolario, at the Fondazione Provinciale della Comunità Comasca, which supports projects run by five associations in the Lake Como area as well as numerous cultural initiatives.
Where_
In the garden of Villa Bernasconi
Largo Alfredo Campanini, 2, Cernobbio (CO)
The full program_
*5 December, from 04:00 pm to 07:00 pm
The greenhouse opens to the public, presenting the Camellias chosen for Orticolario’s Christmas.
*6-7 December, from 10:00 pm to 07:00 pm
Alongside the Orticolario Camellias, the greenhouse hosts Marigami, with hand-decorated paper origami.
*8 December, from 10:00 pm to 07:00 pm
Special opening for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
*13-14 December, from 10:00 pm to 07:00 pm
Alongside the Orticolario Camellias, the greenhouse hosts Libreria Plinio il Vecchio, with a curated selection of books.
*Sunday 14 December, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
Illustrator Benedetta Sala reads and presents the children’s book “Notte di Natale in libreria”. Followed by book signing.
*20-21 December, from 10:00 pm to 07:00 pm
Alongside the Orticolario Camellias, the greenhouse hosts Studio Pepa, with ceramics and tableware.
*22-23 December, from 10:00 pm to 07:00 pm
Alongside the Orticolario Camellias, the greenhouse hosts Piazzetta Lake Como, with fresh pasta, jarred sauces, and other delicacies.
*24 December, from 09:00 am to 12:00 pm
Last opening hours before Christmas.
With Piazzetta Lake Como.
*28 December, from 10:00 pm to 07:00 pm
Alongside the Orticolario camellias, the greenhouse hosts Rocca de le Strie, with medicinal, aromatic, and wild herbs.
In collaboration with the Municipality of Cernobbio
With the support of Bianchi Group and Mantero Seta
Camellia grijsii. The discreet and elegant one.
A whispered secret: a small botanical Camellia that doesn’t seek attention, yet wins you over with measured, quiet grace.
Its tiny and glossy leaves frame pure white flowers that bloom between January and March. The scent, unexpected and enveloping, is a subtle call that spreads through the cold winter air: the signature of a rare, discreet, and precious species.
Native to the mountains of southeastern China, Camellia grijsii grows compact and orderly, almost gathered in on itself, as if it were guarding its own beauty for those patient enough to observe it.
Care and maintenance
*Filtered light, never excessive. It loves bright, cool environments, protected from strong sun and dry winds.
*Acidic, well-draining soil. Soft, rich soil capable of holding moisture.
*Gentle, regular watering. A consistent rhythm, preferably with non-calcareous water, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
*Minimal pruning. Only to lighten the structure after flowering, without altering its natural harmony.
Camellia ‘Yuletide’. The cheerful, festive one.
An unexpected spark, a flash of vivid red.
Its simple flowers, perfect in their essential form, are dressed in an intense, velvety red, offset by the golden heart of the stamens: a small, glowing celebration at the heart of the quietest season. Its early, generous flowering accompanies the days leading up to the solstice, bringing colour and visual warmth just when nature seems asleep.
‘Yuletide’ carries the typical delicacy of Camellia sasanqua: tiny, elegant, evergreen leaves; a light yet structured form; a strong but gentle character, suited to intimate gardens as well as contemporary spaces.
Care and maintenance
*Soft, welcoming light. Prefers bright exposures, with filtered light or direct sun during cooler hours.
*Acidic, well-drained soil. Light, fertile soil that supports early and extended flowering.
*Regular watering. It loves consistent moisture but dislikes standing water. Non-calcareous water keeps the foliage glossy and healthy.
*Light pruning. After flowering, only to shape the canopy and maintain its natural silhouette.
6 December – 5 January / Spazio Natta, Como
For the gardeners of the future
A hands-on workshop proposal for children aged 5 to 12.
A hands-on workshop proposal for children aged 5 to 12.
An opportunity to rediscover the pleasure of creative and manual activities, exploring the potential of natural materials. Young participants experiment with flours, grains, wood, soil, clay, and fabric, stimulating creativity, concentration, and collaboration. An educational experience that, during the holiday season, invites them to design and give form to their idea of nature (and more).
Free events, by reservation
In collaboration with Teatro dei Burattini di Como
Within the “Natale a Como” initiative promoted by the Municipality of Como