Uso de especies nativas como plantas ornamentales en el Distrito Metropolitano de Quito

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. Cities growth has considerably affected ecological systems, making it necessary to create green spaces. Native flora is a good option for these spaces, because of the minimum maintenance cost, its adaptation to temperatures, rainfall and resistance to pests. OBJECTIVE. To access the feasibility of using native plants as ornamentals in urban areas of the Metropolitan District of Quito. Specifically, we hope to know the supply and demand of ornamental plants in the market. And we also want to propose native species with potential ornamental use. METHOD. Surveys were conducted with merchants in Nayón about the plants they sell. In addition, bibliographic consultations, interviews and field visits were carried out to identify species with ornamental potential. RESULTS. Exotic ornamental plants are the ones that occupy most of the market. The traders of ornamental plants do not know what the native plant species are, but at the same time they give them positive characteristics. We present a list of 27 native species with ornamental potential. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS. Given their intrinsic characteristics, as well as the value given to native plants, we consider that they have the potential to be used as ornamentals and form part of the urban landscape.