Utilization of three ornamental monocotyledons for vertical green spaces in Southern Italy

Apulia lies on the Adriatic sea, in the Southern part of the Italian peninsula; it is characterized by a typically Mediterranean climate and its towns, situated along the coast, including Bari, are exposed to strong winds that are cool in winter (north wind) and hot in summer (sirocco). In order to expand the urban green spaces, green areas are being implemented on balconies (vertical green) and on patios (horizontal green). This note is about the achievement of the "vertical" green area of a newly constructed building located close to the harbour, in one of the most wind-exposed areas. Some native and introduced ornamental monocotyledons have been chosen such as: Chamaerops humilis, Phormium tenax and Dracaena draco. Their adaptability to being grown in pots and their resistance to highly salty winds were tested. The results pointed out that all the species being tested are suitable for pot growing that limits both the plant height and the influence of low temperatures on roots.