Research and innovation in floriculture: the Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna takes center stage at the X International Symposium on New Ornamental Crops in Kalamata
Professor Antonio Ferrante, from the Institute of Crop Production at the Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, was invited to deliver a keynote lecture at the opening of the X International Symposium on New Ornamental Crops, held in Kalamata (Greece) from 13 to 16 October 2025, with a presentation titled “Flower longevity as driver for new ornamental plants selection.”
The event represents an important opportunity for international exchange focused on the latest innovations in the field of ornamental plants, with particular attention to sustainability and adaptation to climate change.
During the symposium, the results of the PRIN project “Exploring edible NATIVe Australian and South African plant species for Mediterranean ornamental industry – NATIVASA”, coordinated by Professor Anna Mensuali, were also presented. The project aims to identify new ornamental species with high tolerance to environmental stress, with the goal of innovating and strengthening the Italian floriculture sector at both national and international levels.
In particular, Dr. Annalisa Meucci, research fellow at the Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, presented a study focused on reducing irrigation water use in the cultivation of Bulbine frutescens (L.) Willd. and Crithmum maritimum L., two species of interest due to their resilience and potential for use in Mediterranean environments.
The participation of the Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna in the symposium confirms the University’s leading role in applied research in the floriculture sector, combining scientific innovation and environmental sustainability.
