Use of native plants for ornamental purposes to conserve plant biodiversity: Case of study of Majella National Park

Abstract The Majella National Park in Italy, through its ex situ plant conservation facilities (seed bank, botanical gardens and nurseries) plays an important role in preventing biodiversity loss, especially those rare and endemic species. Among the various conservation strategies, the Park developed a useful way to increase ex situ collections through a nursery chain and selling/giving indigenous species to the local people and community also for ornamental purposes. To date, more than 500 individuals of indigenous species are given every year. This spread of native plants contributes to the diffusion of the rare and endemic species in the protected area and its surroundings enhancing their survival chances.