JOURNAL OF NANJING FORESTRY UNIVERSITY ›› 2025, Vol. 49 ›› Issue (2): 1-11.doi: 10.12302/j.issn.1000-2006.202308013

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Research progress on the dust retention effect and physiological-ecological response of Osmanthus fragrans

YANG Jianxin1(), GUO Shuailong1, MA Changle1,2,*(), LI Rui1, GAO Can1, KANG Xinling1, LI Fulong1   

  1. 1. College of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture Sciences, Southwest Forestry University,Kunming 650224,China
    2. Southwest Research Center for Engineering Technology of Landscape Architecture, National Foresty and Grassland Administration, Kunming 650224,China
  • Received:2023-08-08 Accepted:2023-12-13 Online:2025-03-30 Published:2025-03-28
  • Contact: MA Changle E-mail:la8099@qq.com;mcl@swfu.edu.cn

Abstract:

Vegetation effectively removes airborne particulate matter through “direct” and “indirect” pathways, each with distinct mechanisms and processes. Osmanthus fragrans, one of the top ten traditional flowers in China, is widely distributed in south of the Qinling Mountains across the subtropical regions. Research results indicate that this species plays a significant role in mitigating atmospheric particulate pollution and improving air quality by retaining particulate matter. We analyzed and summarized advancements in understanding the dust retention capacity of O. fragrans, emphasizing key quantitative indicators such as dust retention per unit leaf area, per single leaf, and the ability to retain particulates of various sizes. This study also explored spatiotemporal variations in dust retention and its impact on spectral characteristics, morphological structure, and physiological ecology. Differences in dust retention among O. fragrans varieties and habitats were attributed to genetic traits and environmental factors, including air pollution levels, leaf morphology, leaf area, phyllotaxy, inclination angle and crown shape. Key findings include the following:(1) Correlation with environmental pollution. Dust retention per unit leaf area was positively correlated with the background level of air pollution. (2) Influence of morphological traits: dust retention per single leaf was determined by leaf morphology and environmental conditions, though no significant correlation was found between single-leaf area and particulate retention capacity. (3) Plant-level variation. Total dust retention varied significantly among plants due to differences in leaf area across growth stages, health conditions, and locations. (4) Particulate size specificity. Leaves retained coarse particulates more effectively than fine ones, and dust retention showed predictable spatiotemporal variation. Diurnal and seasonal trends aligned with fluctuations in airborne particulate matter, with species- and region-specific saturation times. (5) Impact on leaf traits. Particulate retention altered leaf spectral characteristics, affecting morphology, functional traits, and adsorption capacity. These changes influenced physiological ecology, growth, floral fragrance, and ornamental value.

Key words: Osmanthus fragrans, dust-retention effect, air particulate matter, morphological characteristics, physiological response

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