LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND REDEVELOPMENT LABORATORY

Module Ornamental and landscape arboriculture

By the end of the course, students will be able to select and manage arboreal systems performing ornamental and landscape functions in the Mediterranean environment. They will also be able to identify the main ornamental tree species and relate them to their appropriate ecological and landscape context.

Teaching Methods

The course includes:

• 21 hours of interactive lectures
• 42 hours of practical activities (technical visits, case studies, and seminars)

In compliance with current regulations on inclusion and equal opportunities, students may request individual meetings to arrange compensatory and/or dispensatory measures. Students may also contact the Department’s CInAP representative (Center for Active and Participatory Inclusion – Services for Disabilities and Learning Disorders).

Basic knowledge of general arboriculture.

Attendance

Attendance is not mandatory but strongly recommended, as it supports learning and student assessment.

The course covers the following topics:

• Design and management of ornamental tree systems (planting and pruning)
• Ecological, environmental, and landscape functions of trees
• The role of trees in urban environments
• Evolution of arboreal landscapes in Italy and analysis of Sicilian landscape heritage
• Botanical classification, origin, and distribution of ornamental species
• Morphological traits, environmental requirements, and ornamental value of major tree species
• Propagation of ornamental species
• Systematic study of the main ornamental tree families and species (Pinaceae, Cupressaceae, Fagaceae, Fabaceae, etc.)
• Practical activities: technical field visits, case studies, and seminars 

Assessment Methods

Final oral examination including species identification.

Assessment criteria:

• knowledge and understanding
• analytical and synthesis skills
• ability to make interdisciplinary connections
• use of technical-scientific language
• communication skills

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Grading Scale

• 18–20: basic knowledge with some inaccuracies
• 21–23: adequate knowledge and coherent argumentation
• 24–26: good knowledge and analytical skills
• 27–29: very good and in-depth knowledge
• 30–30L:excellent knowledge with strong critical ability

Sample Questions

• Identification of ornamental tree species
• Phytoclimatic zones (e.g., Lauretum)
• Botanical, morphological, and ecological traits of species such as Pinus pinea, Platanus acerifolia, Celtis australis, Jacaranda mimosifolia