Types of vegetation
In Barcelona, with its Mediterranean climate and increasingly frequent drought episodes, priority is given to species that adapt well to this climate and urban conditions, and that are resistant to drought and air pollution.
The goal is to ensure sustainable and efficient maintenance. Therefore, trees and plants are selected based on their ability to thrive with fewer resources, such as water and fertilisers.
Their resistance to pests and diseases is taken into account to minimise the need for chemical treatments. Another criterion in selecting plant species is their diversity and the potential benefits they provide to native fauna, including pollinators and other beneficial animals.
Trees and palm trees
Did you know that Barcelona has 487 different tree species?
Overall, Barcelona has 1.4 million trees, including those in the Collserola area. Of these, 250,000 are in the urban area. The holm oak, the Aleppo pine, and the plane tree are the three dominant species. To maintain them, it is sometimes necessary to prune away dead or dangerous branches. An integrated pest and disease management approach is also used to ensure their good condition.
Shrubs
Shrubby vegetation acts as a connector for green areas and provides a habitat for animals. The large number of shrubs in the city contributes to biodiversity.
Twice a year, in early summer and winter, pruning and maintenance are carried out, while replanting and soil improvements are done between late autumn and winter.
Grasses, fields and grasslands
Grasses are present in many of the city's parks and gardens. Currently, more drought-resistant species are used, such as warm-climate grasses that require less water and can withstand higher temperatures. However, as part of an ecological management and naturalisation approach, efforts have been made to create new habitats by letting grasses develop into meadows and grasslands, or by directly planting wildflower meadows.
Groundcovers and perennials
Groundcovers grow blanketing the soil like a living carpet, while perennials live for more than two years and require minimal maintenance. Both types play a crucial role in sustainable gardening, as they help create greener spaces that are easier to maintain and more resilient to adverse weather conditions.
Groups of flowers
These seasonal plants add colour and vitality to the city's parks and gardens. Groups can consist of either seasonal flowers or perennials.
When there is no drought, flowers are planted in winter and spring. But if there is one flower particularly associated with Barcelona, it is the rose, thanks to its rose gardens and the International New Roses Competition.
Grasses in tree pits
Over 65 species of spontaneous plants have been detected. Both ornamental and more subtle flowers also provide a habitat for pollinators, birds, and beneficial fauna.
Planters
The city planters contain over 270 different plant species. These mainly consist of small trees, shrubs, perennials, and some annual plants.
