Scientific name: Acer campestre L.

English: Common maple, field maple

Serbian: Klen, poljski javor

Hungarian: Mezei juhar

German: Feld-Ahorn, Massholder

Etymology: Ácer (Roman name) = sharp (related to the shape of the leaves); campestér, campéstris (lat.) = campestral, growing in the field.

Habitat: It is a deciduous tree about 20 m tall, compact, with an irregular canopy that often grows as a shrub. It has a very developed heart-like root system.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: It is a monoecious, entomophilous species with large coppicing abilities and no requirement for the type of land.

Ecological significance: Field maple is valuable to wildlife, and it is attractive to aphids, ladybirds, hoverflies, and birds. Lots of moth species feed on its leaves. The flowers provide nectar and pollen sources for bees and birds, and small mammals eat the fruits.

Uses: Field maple produces the hardest, highest-density timber of all European maples. It is a warm, creamy-brown colour with a silky shine. Traditional uses include wood-turning and carving. Its wood is also popular for making musical instruments, particularly harps.

Mythology and symbolism: People believed in some parts of Europe that maple branches if hung around a doorway, would stop bats from entering. The herbalist Culpepper recommended maple leaves and bark to strengthen the liver. Medieval superstition said that if you passed a maple branch over a child, it would remove all traces of witchcraft.

Note: It binds the soil well. It is suitable for planting individually or in groups on different habitat types.

Scientific name: Acer tataricum L.

English: Tatarian maple

Serbian: Žešlja, tatarski javor, žestika

Hungarian: Tűzvörös juhar

German: Tatarischer Steppen-Ahorn

Etymology: Ácer (Roman name) = sharp (for the shape of the leaves); tátaricus (lat.) = Tatar

Habitat: Deciduous tree 8 to 12 m high with irregular canopy. It often grows in nature as a shrub.

Distribution: Pontic-Pannonian floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, predominantly mesophilic species. It has no special requirements for soil, and it tolerates saline soils well.

Note: It is an important factor in the forest and forest-steppe vegetation of the Pannonian region. It is a honey plant. It is important for planting in small groups on saline soils.

Scientific name: Berberis vulgaris L.

English: Common barberry, European barberry

Serbian: Žutika

Hungarian: Sóskaborbolya, sóskafa

German: Gemeine Berberitze, Gewöhnliche Berberitze

Etymology: Bar-berry = medieval Latin, barbaris = from the Arabic name for the fruit; vulgaris (lat.) = ordinary, everyday

Habitat: Deciduous shrub about 3 m high, with erect, shrubby branches. Three-part to five-part thorns (leaf metamorphoses) are formed on long shoots. The root system is well developed.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, anemophilous, heliophilic, species. It has a large ecological amplitudes and very small requirements for habitat conditions.

Uses: The oldest findings on the use of barberry fruit for blood purification are inscribed on clay tablets in the library of the Assyrian (today Iraq) Emperor Ashurbanipal in 650 BC. The bark of the stem, the root of the Berberis species, was widely used in Ayurvedic, homeopathic and ethnomedicine as raw materials or ingredients. It is traditionally used in Ayurveda to treat various infections of the eye, ear and mouth, for weight loss, and rapid wound healing. It has been used to treat jaundice in the traditional medicine of Iran and other countries in the East and the Middle East.

Note: It is a honey plant. It is suitable for planting in smaller or larger groups, as well as in lines on sunny sites, away from trails and places where visitors gather. It is suitable for the remediation of degraded habitats.

Scientific name: Cornus sanguinea L.

English: Bloodtwig dogwood, red dogwood

Serbian: Svib

Hungarian: Veresgyűrű som

German: Blutroter Hartriegel, Rothartriegel

Etymology: Cornus (lat. Cornis) = horn, wood is hard; sanguíneum (lat.) = like blood red, the branches are bright red in autumn and winter

Habitat: Deciduous shrub about 3 m high, with long shrubby branches, which are dark red in winter. The superficial root system is well developed.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, slow-growing species, and large coppice abilities. It has extremely wide ecological amplitude and withstands strong insolation, as well as poor, shallow soil.

Ecological significance: The leaves are eaten by the caterpillars of some moths, while the flowers are visited by insects, and the berries are eaten by many mammals and birds.

Uses: –

Mythology and symbolism: –

Note: It can grow spontaneously in Vojvodina, in the zones between plough fields (hedges). It is a honey plant. It is suitable for forming the lower parts in buffer zones, as well as for planting in groups, or as a solitary plant. It is a very popular horticultural species, in the autumn and winter aspects, due to the colour of the leaves and branches.

Scientific name: Crataegus monogyna Jacq.

English: Common hawthorn, white hawthorn

Serbian: Beli glog, jednosemeni glog

Hungarian: Egybibés galagonya

German: Eingriffeliger Weissdorn, Weissdorn

Etymology: Crataegus (gr. κράταιγος) = firm, hard, strong, the name remains after Theophrastus, refers to hardwood

Habitat: Deciduous shrub 3 – 6 m high, rarely lower tree up to 8 m high. The branches are with thorns and the root system is well developed.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, predominantly xerothermic, semi-sciophilous species. It has a very wide ecological amplitude.

Ecological significance: Hawthorn attracts more than 300 species of insects. It is important for the nutrition of moth caterpillars. The flowers are eaten by dormouse, and the flowers also provide nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects. The fruits are rich in antioxidants and are eaten by migratory birds and small mammals. Thorny bushes and dense leaves make a fantastic nesting shelter for many species of birds.

Uses: Hawthorn wood is very hard. It is used for turning and engraving and for making veneers and cabinets, boxes and parts for boats. Young leaves, flower buds and young flowers are edible. Flower buds in their development phase are especially good. The berries are edible but can cause mild stomach upsets. They are most often used to make jellies, wine and ketchup.

It is a medicinal species; the flowers are used to make tea.

Mythology and symbolism: Hawthorn was a pagan symbol of fertility. It was believed that bringing hawthorn flowers into the interior would be accompanied by illness and death. Botanists later learned that the chemical trimethylamine in hawthorn flowers is also one of the first chemicals produced in decaying animal tissue, so it is not surprising that hawthorn flowers are associated with death. Its flowering marked the point at which spring turns into summer.

Note: It can grow spontaneously in Vojvodina in the zones between plough fields (hedges). It is a honey plant. It has a cultural significance since it was a very important ‘protective’ species in folk beliefs. This species is suitable for buffer zones and to be planted in mixed groups.

Scientific name: Crataegus oxyacantha L.

English: European hawthorn

Serbian: Crveni glog, višesemeni glog,

Hungarian: Hosszúcsészés galagonya, rózsaképű galagonya

German: Stumpfgelappter Weissdorn

Etymology: Crataegus (gr. κράταιγος) = firm, hard, strong, the name remains after Theophrastus, refers to hardwood

Habitat: Deciduous shrub of medium size, or lower tree up to 12 m tall. The branches are with thorns. It has a well-developed surface root system.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, hygromesophilic species. It has a wide ecological amplitude, but slightly fresher soils suit it well.

Ecological significance: Hawthorn attracts more than 300 species of insects. It is important for the nutrition of moth caterpillars. The flowers are eaten by dormouse, and the flowers also provide nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects. The fruits are rich in antioxidants and are eaten by migratory birds and small mammals. Thorny bushes and dense leaves make a fantastic nesting shelter for many species of birds.

Uses: Hawthorn wood is very hard. It is used for turning and engraving and for making veneers and cabinets, boxes and parts for boats. Young leaves, flower buds and young flowers are edible. Flower buds in their development phase are especially good. The berries are edible but can cause mild stomach upsets. They are most often used to make jellies, wine and ketchup.

It is a medicinal species; the flowers are used to make tea.

Mythology and symbolism: Hawthorn was a pagan symbol of fertility. It was believed that bringing hawthorn flowers into the interior would be accompanied by illness and death. Botanists later learned that the chemical trimethylamine in hawthorn flowers is also one of the first chemicals produced in decaying animal tissue, so it is not surprising that hawthorn flowers are associated with death. Its flowering marked the point at which spring turns into summer.

Note: It can grow spontaneously in Vojvodina in the zones between plough fields (hedges). It is a honey plant. It has a cultural significance since it was a very important ‘protective’ species in folk beliefs. This species is suitable for buffer zones and to be planted in mixed groups.

Scientific name: Euonymus europaeus L.

English: Common spindle tree, witchwood

Serbian: Kurika, popova kapica, vretenika

Hungarian: Csíkos kecskerágó

German: Echtes Pfaffenhütchen, Gemeiner Spindelbaum

Etymology: Euonymus (gr. Ευώνυμος) = good name, or according to another interpretation Theophrastus’ name for plants whose wood was used to make spindles.

Habitat: Deciduous shrub, or lower tree up to 6 m tall sparse and airy canopy. It has a moderately developed, superficial root system.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, mesophilic to hygromesophilic, fast-growing and poisonous species. It has wide ecological amplitudes, and wetter habitats suit it well.

Ecological significance: Caterpillars of moths and butterflies feed on the leaves. The leaves also attract aphids and their predators, including flies, ladybugs, as well as sparrows and other bird species. Flowers are a rich source of nectar and pollen for insects.

Uses: In the past, it was used to make “spindles” for spinning and holding wool (hence the name), as well as skewers, toothpicks, wedges and knitting needles. The fruits are baked and ground into powder and used to treat lice or scabies in cattle. Both leaves and fruits are toxic to humans. Its berries have a laxative effect. Today, wood is used to make high-quality charcoal for artists.

Mythology and symbolism: It used to be believed that if the common spindle tree bloomed earlier, the plague would break out soon.

Note: It is a honey plant. It is suitable for buffer zones to be planted in mixed groups. Its cultivated forms are grown in gardens due to the strong autumn colour of leaves and fruits.

Scientific name: Frangula alnus Mill.

English: Alder buckthorn, glossy buckthorn

Serbian: Trušljika obična, pasdren, krkavina

Hungarian: Kutyabenge

German: Pulverbaum, Gemeiner Faulbaum

Etymology: Frangulus (lat.) = Fragile, refers to brittle-fragile wood

Habitat: Deciduous shrub 1 – 3 m high, rarely lower, tree up to about 7 m sparse canopy. The root system is well developed.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, mesophilic species. Wetter habitats are more suitable for it.

Ecological significance: Buckthorn leaves are the main food for the protected species of butterfly Gonepteryx rhamni, (known as the common brimstone). Flowers are valuable for bees, and the fruit is an important source of food for birds, especially thrushes.

Uses: It is a medicinal plant. Its bark (Cortex Rhamni Frangulae) has long been used as a purgative. It is intensively used for these purposes even today. This plant was also used to make gunpowder, pigments and paints. In the past, this wood, being so hard and durable and which sharpens well, was also used to make wooden nails, shoes, shoe racks, arrows and skewers.

Mythology and symbolism: It was believed to have the power to protect against sorcery, demons, poisons and headaches.

Note: It is a honey plant. It is suitable for moist soil, along the coast, to be planted in mixed groups with willows.

Scientific name: Fraxinus angustifolia L.

English: Narrow-leaved ash

Serbian: Poljski jasen, lučki jasen

Hungarian: Keskenylevelű kőris

German: Schmalblättrige Esche

Etymology: Fraxinus (gr. phraxis) = fence, wood was used for fence posts, according to some authors the old Latin name for ash tree was used by Virgil

Habitat: A deciduous tree about 15 m high, but in favourable conditions, it grows up to 25 m with oblong-oval dense and regular canopy. It has a very developed, broad root system.

Distribution: Pontic-sub-Mediterranean floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Anemophilous, hygrophilous species, wide ecological amplitudes. It grows best in coastal forests, on moist soil, but it adapts well to other habitats.

Note: It is an important factor for the forest and forest-steppe vegetation of the Pannonian region. It binds the soil well and is suitable for buffer zones in combination with other species.

Scientific name: Ligustrum vulgare L.

English: Common privet, European privet

Serbian: Obična kalina, zimolez

Hungarian: Közönséges fagyal

German: Gemeiner Liguster

Etymology: Ligustrum (lat.) = Ligula “binder” as Pliny and Virgil called this species, suitable for plaiting

Habitat: Deciduous branched shrub 1 – 3 m high with shrub-like, weakly branched branches. Root system well developed.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: It is a monoecious, entomophilous, mesophilic species known for its very strong-growing shoots abilities. It has a wide ecological amplitude.

Note: It is a honey plant, which is suitable for planting in buffer zones. It tolerates pruning well.

Scientific name: Populus alba L.

English: Silver poplar, white poplar

Serbian: Bela topola

Hungarian: Fehér nyár

German: Silber-Pappel

Etymology: Populus (lat.) = old Latin name for poplar “arbour populi” – folk tree; alba (lat.) = white, refers to the silvery-white reverse side of the leaf.

Habitat: Deciduous tree 30-40 m high, round, sometimes pyramidal canopy. The root system is highly developed with deep and superficial roots.

Distribution: Sub-South Siberian floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Dioecious, entomophilic, mesophilic and heliophilic species. Fresh, rich and moist soils suit it, but it can grow well on other soil types as well.

Ecological significance: Various caterpillars of moths feed on poplar leaves. Flowers – catkins are an early source of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects, and birds feed on seeds.

Uses: White poplar trees are planted in windbreaks. It has long been used in medicine. Its bark has astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used to treat many ailments, ranging from rheumatism and indigestion to lower back pain and gout. Externally, the bark was made into compresses to treat infected wounds, haemorrhoids and colds. The leaves are used to treat tooth decay even today.

Mythology and symbolism: In ancient Greek mythology, the white poplar was dedicated to Hercules after he destroyed a fire-breathing giant Cacus next to the Aventine Hill, which was covered with white poplars. The people, offering sacrifices to Hercules, were always crowned with wreaths made of white poplar twigs.

Note: It binds the soil extremely well on wet sites. It is suitable for planting in small or large groups.

Scientific name: Populus nigra L.

English: Black poplar

Serbian: Crna topola

Hungarian: Fekete nyár

German: Schwarz-Pappel, Margareten-Pappel

Etymology: Populus (lat.) = old Latin name for poplar „arbour populi“- folk tree; or (gr. πάλλω) =pállo, refers to shimmering leaves, nigra (lat.) = dark, black, refers to the dark colour of branches and trees.

Habitat: Deciduous tree up to 35 m tall, wide and bright canopy. It is a fast-growing species and tolerates flooding.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Dioecious, entomophilic, heliophilic and hygrophilous species. It grows best on alluvial, light and sandy soils, but it can grow well in all habitats with enough soil moisture.

Ecological significance: Various caterpillars of moths feed on poplar leaves. Flowers – catkins are an early source of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects, and birds feed on seeds.

Uses: Black poplar wood has traditionally been used to make wheels for carts and wagon bottoms. Due to its natural fire resistance, it was often used for floor tiles, especially in the period of paraffin lamps. Black poplar can be cut or pruned. Therefore, it has been a popular source for straw ropes, bean sticks, wedges for clothes and wicker fruit baskets. Nowadays, hybrid black poplar wood is used for wine boxes, pallets, shelves, plates and toys.

Mythology and symbolism: According to Greek mythology, the black poplar was created after Phaethon’s fatal attempt to drive the chariot of Helios/Apollo. Phaeton’s sisters were so loud mourning after his death that the gods turned them into black poplars. It is also said that the fallen red male catkins are the devil’s fingers which bring misfortune if they are picked up.

Note: It binds the soil extremely well on wet sites. It is suitable for planting individually, in lines, in smaller or larger groups.

Scientific name: Populus x canescens (Aiton) Sm.

English: Gray poplar

Serbian: Siva topola

Hungarian: Szürke nyár

German: Grau-Pappel

Etymology: Populus (lat.) = old Latin name for poplar “arbour populi“-folk tree; canescens (lat.) = with white-grey fine hairs, refers to the reverse of the leaf.

Habitat: Deciduous tree over 40 m high. A hybrid species formed by crossing white poplar and aspen. It is created by cultivation, but also by nature. It is a very resistant species.

Distribution: Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Dioecious, anemophilous and heliophilic species. It requires no special soil, but loess, clay and sandy soils suit it best.

Note: This is a natural hybrid of white poplar and aspen. It is suitable for windbreaks.

Scientific name: Prunus fruticosa L.

English: Steppe cherry, European dwarf cherry, Mongolian cherry

Serbian: Stepska višnja

Hungarian: Molyhos madárhúr

German: Zwergkirsche

Etymology: Prunus (lat.) = Old Latin name for plums; fruticosus (lat.)= bearing fruit

Habitat: Deciduous shrub 1-2 m high and the same width. It has an extremely developed, slightly shallower root system. It spreads with adventitious roots.

Distribution: Pontic-sub-Mediterranean floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophytic, heliophilic species, very resistant to drought, high temperatures and frost.

Note: In Vojvodina, it appears spontaneously in the area between plough fields (hedges). It is a honey plant. Cultural significance – fruit picking. It is suitable for planting in protected zones, as well as in groups, or as a solitary tree. It does not tolerate salt in the soil.

Scientific name: Prunus spinosa L.

English: Blackthorn, sloe

Serbian: Crni trn, trnjina

Hungarian: Kökény

German: Schlehdorn, Schlehe, Schwarzdorn

Etymology: Prunus (lat.)= Old Latin name for plums; spinosa (lat.)= thorny

Habitat: Deciduous shrub 1 – 4 m high very branched, with dense and thorny branches. A highly developed root system penetrates deep into the depth and width.

Distribution: Sub-Pontic floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, heliophilic species, large abilities for shoots. It has extremely wide ecological amplitude, and no requirements for any habitat type or soil.

Ecological significance: It is a honey plant rich in pollen and nectar. The caterpillars of many species of butterflies feed on the leaves. Birds nest among thick, thorny bushes and eat caterpillars and other insects on the leaves. During the fall period, they eat blackthorn fruits.

Uses: Traditionally, blackthorn trees have been used to make tonics and syrups to help with indigestion and rheumatism. These tonics and syrups were made of bark, flowers and fruits. Blackthorn is still used to make wine, compotes, jams and gin. The wood used to be used to make sticks and various wood tools

Mythology and symbolism: Witch sticks were believed to be made of the blackthorn tree.

Note: It grows spontaneously in Vojvodina in the zones between the plough fields (hedges).  It is a honey plant. Cultural significance – fruit picking. It is suitable for planting in buffer zones.

Scientific name: Prunus tenella Batsch, Amygdalus nana L.

English: Russian almond, dwarf almond

Serbian: Bademić, stepski badem

Hungarian: Törpemandula

German: Zwergmandel

Etymology: Amygdalus (gr. ἀμυγδάλη) = ancient Greek name for almond; nana (gr. νᾶνος, nānos)= dwarf, very low, meaning dwarf growth of this species compared to an  almond tree

Habitat: Low shrub, 0.5-1.5 m high, which blooms in April, and ripens in September

Distribution: Pontic-central Asian floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, mesophilic, slow-growing species, with wide ecological amplitudes.

Note: As a relict species, it grows on dry, sunny steppe-like habitats and on the edges of forests – communities of Tatarian maple and oak (Aceri tatarico-Quercetum), which is a potential climazonal forest vegetation of Vojvodina. There is a spontaneous extinction of this species in the Pannonian Plain and Vojvodina alike. It is protected by the Ordinance on the Proclamation and Protection of Strictly Protected and Protected Wild Species of Plants, Animals and Fungi – Annex II – Protected Species (Official Gazette of the Republic of Serbia, No. 05/10) and it is on the European Red List and Red Book of Serbian Flora (I volume – the preliminary list of the most endangered plants).

Scientific name: Pyrus pyraster (L.) Burgsd.

English: Common pear, wild pear

Serbian: Divlja kruška

Hungarian: Vadkörte

German: Gemeiner Birnbaum, Holz-Birne

Etymology: Pyrus (lat.) = old Latin name for pear, fruit

Habitat: Deciduous tree 15 – 20 m high, broadly pyramidal, dense canopy, with thorny branches. It has a highly developed root system.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, mesophilic, slow-growing species, with the wide ecological amplitude.

Note: It binds the soil well. It is a honey plant suitable for planting in a line or small groups.

Scientific name: Quercus cerris L.

English: Austrian oak, Turkey oak, moss-cupped oak

Serbian: Hrast cer

Hungarian: Cser

German: Burgund-Eiche, Zerr-Eiche

Etymology: Quercus (lat.) = oak, related to the Arabic name “alqurq” meaning cork; cerris (lat.) = old Latin name for the Austrian/Turkey oak tree used by Pliny and Columella

Habitat: Deciduous tree 20-30 m high, at the beginning of the pyramidal and later of a broad canopy, up to 200 years old.

Distribution: Sub-Mediterranean floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, anemophilous, xerothermic, heliophilic species. Its ecological amplitude is quite wide. There is no special soil requirement, and it can thrive on dry, poor, and skeletal soil.

Ecological significance: Austrian oak is not as valuable for indigenous wild animals as common oak, but flowers are a source of pollen for bees and other insects, and acorns are eaten by birds and small mammals (although their acorns are said to be less tasty than common oak acorns). Birds nest on tree branches.

Uses: –

Mythology and symbolism: Ancient legends claimed that fairies were seen under the common oak tree at night. That is why this tree was chosen for magic. Its wood used to be gladly taken for Christmas Eve. If there was no oak nearby, the head of the family would sometimes bring an oak branch into the house and ask the other family members in the house if they praise the young God. When he received a positive answer, he blessed the fertility with an oak branch and after the ceremony; he placed it in the wall above the hearth. If a bride wanted to have male children, she had to mention the oak at the wedding ceremony. If the oak tree was somewhere in the village, it was considered the sacred tree i.e. “zapis tree” and protector of the community and no one was allowed to cut it. If it had a cavity, barren women would go through it to get pregnant.

In folk belief, the Austran oak is a tree of happiness. In folk medicine, the oak bark was used in wine as a medicine.

Note: Thermophilic and halophytic species, and xerothermic to a large extent, adapted primarily to the sub-Mediterranean and temperate continental climate of Southeast Europe; it thrives on a warm, rich in minerals and slightly acidic substrate, on limestone or silicate.

Scientific name: Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.

English: Sessile oak, durmast oak,

Serbian: Hrast kitnjak

Hungarian: Kocsánytalan tölgy

German: Trauben-Eiche

Etymology: Quercus (lat.)= Oak, related to the Arabic name “alqurq” meaning cork; pubescens (lat. petros)= rock, can grow on shallow, underdeveloped and dry soil.

Habitat: Deciduous tree up to 35 m (sometimes up to 40 m) reaches the age of 600-700 years. It has a very developed root system.

Distribution: Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: It has wide ecological amplitude in terms of soil, from deep to extremely dry, shallow, undeveloped skeletal soils.

Ekological significance: Whether sessile or pedunculate, oaks support more wildlife than any other indigenous tree species. They provide habitat for more than 257 species of insects, which are a source of food for birds and other predators. The hollows of the dead tree are the space for nesting birds and bats. Numerous birds and mammals feed on acorns and butterfly caterpillars feed on flowers and leaf buds of sessile oak.

Uses: –

Mythology and symbolism: Druids practised rituals in oak groves and cherished the mistletoe that grows in oak tree branches. It’s also linked with royalty: ancient kings and Roman emperors wore crowns of oak leaves. In England, the oak is a national symbol of strength. Couples were wed under ancient oaks in Oliver Cromwell’s time. Oak is the emblem of many environmental groups.

Note: Oaks are generally of great ecological importance for other species, primarily insects (284 species), and then birds as well as mammals.

Scientific name: Quercus pubescens L.

English: Downy oak, pubescent oak

Serbian: Hrast medunac

Hungarian: Molyhos tölgy

German: Flaum-Eiche, Flaumhaarige-Eiche

Etymology: Quercus (lat.) = Oak, related to the Arabic name “alqurq” meaning cork; pubescens (lat. pubescens) = means covered with soft short hairs, meaning the back of the leaf.

Habitat: Deciduous tree 15 – 20 m high, very wide canopy. The root system is developed; it penetrates strongly and through very solid bases.

Distribution: Sub-Mediterranean floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, anemophilous, xerothermic, heliophilic species. Its ecological amplitude is quite wide. It has no special soil requirements and it can thrive on dry, poor, skeletal soil.

Note: Excellent resistance to drought and hot summers. It is suitable as a solitary tree, especially in steppe habitats.

Scientific name: Quercus robur L.

English: Common oak, pedunculate oak

Serbian: Dub, hrast lužnjak

Hungarian: Kocsányos tölgy

German: Früh-Eiche, Sommer-Eiche

Etymology: Quercus (lat.) = Oak, related to the Arabic name “alqurq” meaning cork; robur (lat. robustus) = strong, robust, refers to the dimensions of the tree

Habitat: Deciduous tree 30 – 40 (50) m wide, branched canopy. It forms an extremely deep and branched root system (ectotrophic mycorrhiza present).

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, anemophilous, heliophilic and mesophilic species. It reaches its best vitality on deep, fertile soils, with a high groundwater level.

Ecological significance: Whether pubescent or pedunculate, oaks support more wildlife than any other indigenous tree species. They provide habitat for more than 257 species of insects, which are a source of food for birds and other predators. The hollows of the dead tree are the space for nesting birds and bats. Numerous birds and mammals feed on acorns and butterfly caterpillars feed on flowers and leaf buds of sessile oak.

Uses: Oaks produce one of the hardest and most durable timbers on the planet. However, it takes up to 150 years before an oak is ready to use in construction. It has been a prized hardwood timber for thousands of years and is still used for flooring, wine barrels and firewood. Acorns have also been used to make flour for bread making. Since Roman times, tannin, found in the bark, has been used to tan leather.

Mythology and symbolism: Druids practised rituals in oak groves and cherished the mistletoe that grows in oak tree branches. It’s also linked with royalty: ancient kings and Roman emperors wore crowns of oak leaves. In England, the oak is a national symbol of strength. Couples were wed under ancient oaks in Oliver Cromwell’s time. Oak is the emblem of many environmental groups.

Note: Edificator of forest and forest-steppe natural potential vegetation in the Pannonian region. It is the most valuable tree in the wider area. Cultural significance – it was often chosen as the sacred tree i.e. “zapis tree”. Suitable species for planting individually or in groups.

Scientific name: Rosa canina L.

English: Dog hips, dog rose

Serbian: Pasja ruža, šipurak

Hungarian: Gyepűrózsa

German: Hecken-Rose, Hundsrose

Etymology: Rosa (lat.) = Rose, canina (lat. canīnus) = dog, meaning greater number or lower value

Habitat: Deciduous shrub up to 3 m tall, with long, thick, widespread branches. Spikes are present on the branches. The root system is very well developed.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophytic species, extremely wide ecological amplitudes. It is not picky about habitat or soil type.

Ecological significance: Rosehip flowers are an important source of nectar for insects, and their fruits are a source of food for birds such as blackbirds and others.

Uses: Rosehip is rich in vitamin C and has traditionally been used to make syrups and jams. Rosehip oil is also a popular skincare product.

Mythology and symbolism: It is a common symbol in medieval heraldry. It has fewer royal connotations in Germany, where it is associated with the devil and it is said that its fruits were used by fairies to make them invisible.

Note: In Vojvodina, it can grow spontaneously in the zones between the plough fields (hedges). It is a honey plant. Cultural significance – fruit picking. It is suitable to grow as a solitary tree, for planting in small groups, as well as for buffer zones.

Scientific name: Rosa gallica L.

English: French rose, red rose

Serbian: Običan pasdren, krkavina

Hungarian: Parlagi rózsa

German: Essig Rose, Gallische Rose, Zucker Rose

Etymology: Rosa (lat.)= Rose, gallica = Gaelic area, France and Belgium

Habitat: A deciduous shrub that grows up to 2 meters in height.

Distribution: Sub-pontic-Central Asia-sub-Mediterranean floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: It blooms from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to October.

Note: It can grow spontaneously in the area between the plough fields (hedges), or along the edge of the forest. It is a honey plant. Cultural significance – collecting flowers for medical purposes, as there is a long tradition of its application in the perfume industry. It is suitable as a solitary tree, or for planting in small groups.

Scientific name: Salix alba L.

English: Common willow, white willow

Serbian: Bela vrba

Hungarian: Fehér fűz

German: Silber-Weide, Weiss-Weide

Etymology: Salix (lat. salire)= to erupt, most likely due to numerous shoots and rapid growth; alba (lat.)= white, the back of the leaves

Habitat: A deciduous tree about 25 m high, irregular tree trunk and thick curved horizontal branches. It is extremely well developed, deep root system.

Distribution: Sub-Eurasian floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Dioecious, anemophilous, hydrophilic, fast-growing species. It is resistant to flooding for a long period of time and resistant to severe frosts. It requires alkaline soils.

Ecological significance: Caterpillars of numerous moths, as well as the caterpillars of the “purple emperor” butterfly (Apatura iris – a protected species in Serbia), eat the willow leaves. Catkin flowers are an important early source of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects, so birds also use willow trees as there are caterpillars and other insects.

Uses: Traditionally, willows have been used to relieve pain associated with headaches and toothaches. The painkiller “aspirin” (acetylsalicylic acid) is derived from salicin, a compound found in the bark of all species of the genus Salix. In the Middle Ages, in many parts of Europe, the bark used to be chewed to release salicin to relieve pain. The tincture was also used to stop bleeding, clean wounds and treat general pain.

Mythology and symbolism: All willows were trees of celebration in biblical times, but that has changed over time and willows are more often associated with sorrow nowadays. In Serbia, willow branches are used to make head wreaths to celebrate the holiday so-called “Cveti” / Palm Sunday.

Note: Significant for tying with the coastal soils. Male individuals do not bear fruit and are not allergens. Species are suitable for planting individually, in rows, in smaller or larger groups.

Scientific name: Salix cinerea L.

English: Common sallow, grey willow

Serbian: Barska iva

Hungarian: Rekettyefűz

German: Asch-Weide, Grau-Weide

Etymology: Salix (lat. salire) = to erupt, most likely due to numerous shoots and rapid growth; cinerea (lat. „cinereus)= by a grey bluish colour

Habitat: Deciduous low tree, or shrub 1.5 – 3 m high (exceptionally 6 m), wide branched canopy. It has a well-developed root system.

Distribution: Sub-Eurasian floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Dioecious, anemophilous, heliophilic and hydrophilic species. It prefers habitats with plenty of water (along banks, streams, wet meadows and peat bogs).

Ecological significance: Caterpillars of numerous moths, as well as the caterpillars of the “purple emperor” butterfly (Apatura iris – a protected species in Serbia), eat the willow leaves. Catkin flowers are an important early source of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects, so birds also use willow trees as there are caterpillars and other insects.

Uses: Traditionally, willows have been used to relieve pain associated with headaches and toothaches. The painkiller “aspirin” (acetylsalicylic acid) is derived from salicin, a compound found in the bark of all species of the genus Salix. In the Middle Ages, in many parts of Europe, the bark used to be chewed to release salicin to relieve pain. The tincture was also used to stop bleeding, clean wounds and treat general pain.

Mythology and symbolism: All willows were trees of celebration in biblical times, but that has changed over time and willows are more often associated with sorrow nowadays. In Serbia, willow branches are used to make head wreaths to celebrate the holiday so-called “Cveti” / Palm Sunday.

Note: Male individuals do not bear fruit and are not allergens. It is suitable for planting linearly along the shores, where it forms dense willow community.

Scientific name: Ulmus laevis Pall.

English: European white elm, Russian white elm

Serbian: Vez

Hungarian: Vénic, Vénicszil

German: Flatter-Ulme, Bast-Rüster

Etymology: Ulmus (lat.) = Old Latin and Celtic name for elms, laevis (lat.)= Smooth, soft

Habitat: Deciduous tree up to 30 m high, broad, branched, pyramidal canopy. An extremely developed root system significantly penetrates both in-depth and width.

Distribution: Sub-Central European floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, hygrophilous, semi-sciophilous species, rich in shoots. It is a long-lived species (over 400 years).

Ecological significance: Many birds eat elm seeds, and the leaves provide food for the caterpillars of many moths. The caterpillars of the Satyrium w-album butterfly (Knoch, 1782) feed on elms, and this species has declined dramatically since Dutch elm disease spread. It has been recorded more often in nature in recent years, and it is considered an endangered species in Serbia.

Uses: Elmwood is strong, durable and solid. It is resistant to water. It was used to make boats and parts for boats, furniture, wooden water pipes, floorboards and coffins.

Mythology and symbolism: In folk tales, elm holds the power to give you prophetic dreams.

Note: It is an important factor for the forest and forest-steppe vegetation of the Pannonian region. It perfectly tolerates periodic flooding. It is suitable for planting in smaller or larger groups.

Scientific name: Ulmus minor Miller

English: Common elm, field elm

Serbian: Poljski brest

Hungarian: Mezei szil

German: Rot-Rüster, Feld-Ulme

Etymology: Ulmus (lat.) = Old Latin and Celtic name for elms, minor (lat.)= smaller

Habitat: A deciduous tree about 40 m high, regular trunk and thick and branched canopy.

Distribution: Sub-Mediterranean floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, anemophilous, meso-xerophilous, semi-sciophilous species. It can live over 500 years. It prefers fresh, alluvial soils suit it, but it can also grow well in other habitats.

Ecological significance: Many birds eat elm seeds, and the leaves provide food for the caterpillars of many moths. The caterpillars of the Satyrium w-album butterfly (Knoch, 1782) feed on elms, and this species has declined dramatically since Dutch elm disease spread. It has been recorded more often in nature in recent years, and it is considered an endangered species in Serbia.

Uses: Elmwood is strong, durable and solid. It is resistant to water. It was used to make boats and parts for boats, furniture, wooden water pipes, floorboards and coffins.

Mythology and symbolism: –

Note: It is an important factor for the forest and forest-steppe vegetation of the Pannonian region. It is susceptible to Dutch elm disease (DED) and suitable for planting in mixed groups.

Scientific name: Viburnum lantana L.

English: Mealy-tree, wayfaring tree

Serbian: Crna udika, šibikovina

Hungarian: Ostormén bangita

German: Flaumhaarige Schlinge, Wolliger Schneeball

Etymology: Viburnum (lat. viere) = to tie, the branches of species of this genus are flexible and are used in plaiting

Habitat: A deciduous shrub about 3 m high, loose and shrub-like branches. It has a well-developed root system.

Distribution: Sub-Mediterranean floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, bipolar, entomophilous, heliophilic, and fast-growing species. It tolerates drought and frost well. It has no requirements for any soil. It is a heat-loving species.

Ecological significance: Birds feed on the berries, and insects such as hoverflies feed on nectar. The larvae of several species of moths feed on leaves.

Uses: This species is exclusively an ornamental tree nowadays, but its strong stems were used to tie bales of hay in the past. It was used to make arrows in Europe in the past. The body of a hunter (named “Ötzi”) from the period 4,000-3,500 BC was found in the Austrian Alps in 1991. The arrows he carried were made of Wayfaring-Tree stalks (https: // www .iceman.it / en / bowstring /).

Mythology and symbolism: –

Note: It is a honey plant. It is suitable for planting in smaller or larger groups, as well as in lines in full-sunny sites.

Scientific name: Viburnum opulus L.

English: Common snowball, cranberry-tree, guilder-rose

Serbian: Bekovina, crvena udika

Hungarian: Kányabangita

German: Wasser-Schneeball, Gemeiner Schneeball

Etymology: (lat. viere) = to tie, the branches of species of this genus are flexible and are used in plaiting

Habitat: Deciduous shrub about 4 m tall with shrubby, erected branches. It has a well-developed, horizontal root system.

Distribution: Eurasian floral element

Biology / Ecology of the species: Monoecious, entomophilous, mesophilic species. It is fast growing in its youth, and later it grows much slower. It prefers moist habitats.

Ecological significance: Red berries are an important source of bird food. The canopy of the bush provides shelter for other wild animals. The flowers are especially attractive to hoverflies.

Uses: Berries can be slightly toxic if eaten raw, but they can be cooked as jelly or jam. The bark is considered to successfully relieve muscle cramps when used in tinctures.

Mythology and symbolism: Common snowball viburnum is one of the national symbols of Ukraine and is mentioned in many folk songs and as a motif in art pieces and embroidery.

Note: It is an indicator of ancient forests. If you notice it while exploring nature, it could be a sign that you are standing in a rare and special habitat. It is a honey plant suitable for planting in the coastal area, in small groups or individually.

Species: Ornithogalum boucheanum (Kunth) Asch.

Genus: Ornithogalum

Family: Asparagaceae

English: Bouché’s star of Bethlehem

Serbian: Bušeova vitlejemska zvezda

Hungarian: Kónya madártej, Kónya sárma

German: Bouchés Milchstern

Etymology: The name Ornithogalum comes from the Latin word ornis (ὄρνις) and gala (γάλα), the ancient Greek word for “bird” and “milk”.

Ornithogalum boucheanum (Kunth) Asch. was named after the German botanist Peter Carl Bouche (1809-1881), one of the members of a prominent family of botanists and gardeners

Status: Protected species of the Republic of Serbia (Rulebook on the proclamation and protection of strictly protected and protected wild species of plants, animals and fungi (Appendix II)).

Distribution: It belongs to the east sub-Mediterranean-Pannonian (Pontic) floral element. Ornithogalum boucheanum is widespread in Central and Southeastern Europe. It is very endangered in some parts of Hungary, and it is rare and critically endangered in Austria. It is also endangered in Slovakia. This species has been recorded in only a few locations in Serbia, mostly in Vojvodina.

Biology: This is a perennial, bulbous plant from the Asparagaceae family with star-shaped flowers with usual green stripes on the outer surface. It is about 40-50 (60) cm high. The species can be found during the spring blooms (end of the 4th month).

Habitat: Its habitats are various, but mainly: forest clearings, oak forests with sparse composition, open slopes, valleys next to the water bodies, and lowland areas with an altitude range of up to 500 m. O. boucheanum can also be seen on grasslands in vineyards, field borders, parched places, pastures, road edges, clayey (loamy) soils, loess fields, and humus sandy soils.

Note: Plants, especially bulbs and flowers, contain cardiac glycosides, especially convallatoxin and convaloside, which are toxic to humans and livestock.