In short: On a sunny Barcelona terrace, Mediterranean species work best: olive trees in large pots, rosemary, lavender, sage, ornamental grasses, agapanthus, pittosporum and climbers such as star jasmine or bougainvillea. They cope with sun, wind and salt air and, with drip irrigation, need little water.
Trees and structure
An olive tree in a generous planter gives a Mediterranean terrace more character than anything else: it handles sun and wind and casts light shade. We used them on the Pedralbes rooftop terraces, overlooking the whole city. To screen views or block the wind, pittosporum or elaeagnus hedges work well.
Shrubs, herbs and flowers
- Rosemary, lavender, sage and santolina: scent, flowers and very little water.
- Agapanthus: blue summer flowers, happy in planters.
- Grasses (stipa, pennisetum): movement in the wind and a natural look.
- Succulents and agaves in the most exposed spots.
Climbers for pergolas and walls
Star jasmine, bougainvillea or plumbago cover pergolas and walls and give summer shade.
Small terraces
For balconies and mini terraces, Manuel Maíllo advised in El Mueble to choose compact, upright plants that take little floor space and give plenty of green.
Keys to making them last
- Large planters: more soil means more water reserve and healthier roots.
- Automatic drip irrigation with a timer, including for holidays.
- Group plants by their water and sun needs.
For a proposal for your terrace, see our terraces and rooftops service or get in touch.
