Plant palette for parks and gardens
Criteria for the selection of plant species in green space design
The plant palette for parks and gardens in Barcelona is a document that provides practical and guiding criteria for selecting plant species in the design and implementation of urban green spaces. It focuses mainly on shrub, perennial, climbing and ground cover species, as these are the most commonly used in the city’s public landscaping. However, annual and biennial plants are not included, as they are rarely used in public green spaces due to the high level of resources required for proper maintenance. Trees are also excluded.
The document is structured into two main sections: the first covers general criteria for planting design in green spaces, while the second focuses on specific criteria for selecting plant species. It is also complemented by a final list that serves as a dynamic online database, providing updated information on the available species and their main characteristics.
Planting design criteria
The design criteria set out in Section 1 of the document aim to ensure that urban planting not only adapts to its surroundings, but also maximises ecosystem services, optimises management costs and promotes biodiversity. This approach incorporates site analysis, climate requirements, social uses and environmental impact, and promotes green urban planning based on the naturalisation of the ecosystem.
Species selection criteria
Section 2 of the document sets out clear criteria for selecting the most suitable plant species according to the specific characteristics of each green space. This section serves as a practical guide to understanding how to choose species that respond to the environmental and functional needs identified during the design process described in Chapter 1 to ensure well-adapted, balanced and successful gardens as plant communities.
Illustrations: Erola Boix
Table of available species and their main characteristics
This table is updated regularly and offers a range of plants available for planting projects in urban public spaces.
