Vascular Plants from the Old Walls in Kystendil (Southwestern Bulgaria)

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study is to establish species diversity, the conformities and trends about the origin and variability of the wall flora in the central city part of Kystendil, The study area is National architectural reserve, located in the border of the old fortress wall on antique Pautalia and medieval Velbuzhd. The study is carried out for two periods 1998–2001 and 2007–2008. During the study are determined total 122 taxa (on walls and their neighboring area): Magnoliophyta (110), Polypodiophyta (5) and Bryophyta (7). With most participation are families Fabaceae (20), Poaceae (18), Asteraceae (10), Caryophyllaceae (6), Lamiaceae (5), Rosaceae (5), etc. Hemicriptophytes and therophytes are prevailed. The number of annual species is bigger on the wall surface, while perennials are typical for the wall base and neighbouring area. From the base to top of walls, the species diversity decrease and the percent of typical rock xerophytes arise. The northern exposure of the walls causes more rich flora and vegetation. New species for the floristic region are Petrorhagia glumacea, Eleusine indica, Bromus tectorum and Rumex crispus. The dominant floristic elements are Eur-Med-Orient, Eur-Med-Orient-Tur and Eur-Med- Orient-Cauc. As a result the wall flora shows characteristics similar to European and Mediterranean wall floras. Plants from old walls are additional ornamental element and contribute to the complete perceive of architectural and historical objects. Threes effect negatively wall's structure. On the base of present study are given estimation of contemporary wall's state as well as send recommendations about how to maintain old walls and their neighboring area.

Keywords:

• Kystendil
• SW Bulgaria
• vascular plants
• wall flora