Cemeteries are a source of history and culture, as well as of nature. Their role is to insure a place for funeral, commemoration, memorial, but they can also function as green spaces, quiet, proper for relaxation, contemplation, nature communion. They must be planned, managed and maintained in proper architectural and ecologic parameters. Anthropic activities characteristic to the microclimate determine their scientific point of interest, especially regarding the flora they shelter. However, they are less studied from this perspective, and more from the point of view of culture and history. The paper represents an inventory of the main plant species found in three cemeteries in Timisoara. We are discussing 143 species, belonging to 60 botanic families, most of them ornamental, but also numerous weed plants. Species used for decoration are quite common: tulips, heartsease, carnations, lilies, daffodils, irises, peonies, lilies of the valley, petunias, primroses, lavender, chrysanthemum, geranium, sage, forget-me-nots, marigolds. The paper also deals with the overall aspect of these cemeteries. Thus, we have observed the obvious tendency to plate graves. The ones where flowers are planted are protected by tree bark or ornamental stone. The spaces between graves are very narrow, and are not properly maintained. There are many graves grown over by weed. There are few woody species. There is an unwelcome presence of artificial ornamental elements. Certain rules for plant species arrangements on graves should be respected, as well as finding methods to encourage the caretaking of these settlements, so as to obtain a pleasant aesthetic aspect.

biodiversity, flora, floristic compositions, cemeteries

Presentation: oral