Plants

In an agroforest, the abundance of plant species is fundamental. Plants serve different purposes at each stage of agroforestry evolution. We seek to implement native species from the Portuguese forest more extensively, but there are other species that we introduce both because of their suitability to the characteristics of the place and because of the role they can play in the ecosystem.

Here we provide, in continuous work, the plants that make up our agroforest, with some information about the role they play.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is our most abundant tree, which is why we assume its importance in the first stage of agroforestry. In addition to providing shade, creating a lot of biomass, and being a good supplier of firewood, its surroundings maintain humidity that allows other trees, such as holm oaks, to grow.

Cistus

This shrub native to Portugal, with a strong presence in local ecosystems, has been misunderstood. Because it is very resistant, it appears and remains in very poor soils, which makes it a pioneer plant, with many benefits. Its deep roots allow it to pierce very compacted soils and the labdanum (a sticky substance that coats its leaves) collects flying seeds and allows them to reach the ground.

Olive tree

Despite not having a significant presence in agroforestry, this is the predominant species on the farm.

Strawberry tree

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With abundant flowering, the strawberry tree is an important honey plant and its fruits (known for their burning water) serve as food for different animals during autumn and winter. It is a species with resilience to fire and the ability to recover after fire and its roots help to protect and fix the soil.

Hawthorn

This is an interesting species for fauna. In addition to the flowers and fruits being a source of food for more than 140 species of insects and a large number of birds, the plant is also a great shelter and nesting place for birds, as its thorns protect the eggs from potential predators. It is an endemic shrub resistant to large temperature variations and its roots help to loosen the soil.