This study aims to compare the ability of four plant species (Ficus benjamina L.,
Bougainvillea glabra, Ligustrum vulgare L., Bauhinia variegate Linn.) to absorb and
accumulate the cadmium element which is basically emitted by motor vehicles
(tran
sportation). The four species were planted in Alfoursan Park in Lattakia City. Samples
of leaves, bark, wood and soil were collected, and then processed (drying, digesting and
filtrating) for analysis using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed
that the highest concentration of cadmium was in the bark of Bougainvillea glabra 4.4 ppm
(in dry weight), next in the leaves of Bougainvillea glabra 4.2 ppm, then in the bark of
Ficus benjamina L. 3.93 ppm, and finally in the bark of Bauhinia variegate Linn. 3.55ppm.
The lowest concentration, however, was in the wood of Ficus benjamina L. 1.66 ppm. The
results show the importance of the four species and the potential of absorption and
accumulation of the cadmium element. Results also showed the superiority of
Bougainvillea glabra over Ficus benjamina L., Ligustrum vulgare L. and Bauhinia
variegate Linn. Bougainvillea glabra is classified in the study as an accumulator plant
important to purify the environment from the cadmium element.
