The study of jasminum nudiflorum lindl. In urban green infrastructure in conditions of climate change in Belgrade, Serbia

Abstract

The research aims to assess the significance of early (winter) jasmine as a fundamental component within Belgrade's urban green infrastructure (UGI) in Serbia. Through a specific case study, it investigates the intricate interplay between climate, biodiversity, and vegetation across spatial and temporal scales influenced by climate change. The study analizes the layout of UGI, its various spatial typologies, and the importance of relation between these characteristics, morphology and phenology for the social and cultural context. Results demonstrate that Weeping Winter Jasmine, particularly during its cold-season flowering phase, enhances visual appeal and attractiveness without conflicting with ethical, spiritual, or cultural values. Morphological analysis of 2,250 flowers revealed a distinction between trimmed and free-growing plants, yet differing characteristics did not impact flowering abundance or visual perception. Flowering phenology was monitored across the municipalities of Savski venac, Vra & ccaron;ar, and & Ccaron;ukarica to assess shifts in flowering patterns. Over the autumn, winter, and spring of 2022/2023, 30,925 phenological observations were recorded, while 125,600 from the period 2007-2022 were utilized to determine key flowering phases and events important for landscape design. Cluster analysis delineated location 3 from locations 1 and 2, which share similarities and are influenced by the urban heat island (UHI) effect, confirming phenological changes are a prominent indicator of climate change. Despite belonging to the oldest group, location 3 individuals exhibited the longest flowering phenophase, commencing 54.5 days earlier and concluding 15 days later compared to the previous sixteen-year period. The study confirmed the importance of Jasminum nudiflorum Lindl. as a UGI element in Belgrade, sustaining vibrant and cascading displays throughout the colder months and maintianing social and cultural contribution of the location amidst climate change.