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Universidade Federal de Santa Maria
Ci. e Nat., Santa Maria, v. 48, e92979, 2026
DOI: 10.5902/2179460X92979
ISSN 2179-460X
Submitted: 07/25/2025 • Approved: 12/11/2025 • Published: 05/19/2026
Biology-Botany
Efficient plant species for the phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils
Plantas eficientes para a fitorremediação de solos contaminados com cobre
Marcela Pinto Barbosa VassarI
Fabiola de Sampaio Rodrigues Grazinoli GarridoI
Fábio Souto AlmeidaI
I Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brasil
ABSTRACT
This study aimed to identify plant species and their physiological traits relevant to the ancient technique of soil remediation known as phytoremediation, applied to copper-contaminated soils. Publications from 2000 to 2025 were reviewed using the English and Portuguese terms ‘copper,’ ‘phytoremediation,’ ‘copper phytoremediation,’ ‘fitorremediação de cobre,’ and ‘contaminação por cobre.’ The search was conducted across major scientific databases, including the CAPES Periodicals Portal, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Articles were filtered for those addressing techniques and species employed in the phytoremediation of copper-contaminated areas during the study period. The review identified 51 plant species from 22 families, including 14 natives to Brazil, with potential for rehabilitating degraded soils. Species in the family Fabaceae demonstrated high efficiency in copper accumulation within plant tissues, while Poaceae, Asteraceae, and Brassicaceae also exhibited strong phytoremediation potential. The key factors contributing to successful phytoremediation included the ability of plants to establish and grow in contaminated soils, resistance to salinity, and effective translocation of copper from roots to shoots, concentrating the metal in aerial tissues.
Keywords: Environmental degradation; Environmental impacts; Environment
RESUMO
Este trabalho teve como objetivo destacar plantas e suas propriedades fisiológicas utilizadas em uma técnica milenar para tratamento de solos contaminados com cobre, a fitorremediação. Para isso, foi realizada uma seleção de publicações de 2000 a 2025 de trabalhos elegíveis pela presença dos termos em inglês e português: “copper”, “phytoremediation”, “copper phytoremediation” ou “fitorremediação de cobre”, “contaminação por cobre”. A busca ocorreu em bases de dados científicos como Portal de Periódicos da CAPES, SCOPUS e Google Acadêmico. Os trabalhos foram filtrados buscando técnicas e espécies utilizadas na fitorremediação de áreas contaminadas com cobre entre 2000 e 2025. A pesquisa levantou 51 espécies de 22 famílias, das quais 14 são nativas do Brasil, que podem ser utilizadas para recuperação de áreas degradadas. A família vegetal Fabaceae foi eficiente em acumular cobre nos tecidos. As famílias Poaceae, Asteraceae e Brassicaceae também se destacaram na fitorremediação de solos. Os principais fatores para o sucesso dos processos de fitorremediação foram a capacidade da planta de se desenvolver sem maiores problemas em solos contaminados, a resistência à salinidade, bem como sua capacidade de concentrar cobre na parte aérea da planta por meio da translocação do contaminante das raízes para os brotos.
Palavras-chave: Degradação ambiental; Impactos ambientais; Meio ambiente
The processes of urbanization—including the creation, expansion, and development of cities—have driven increasing demand for natural resources, particularly metals and petroleum derivatives. Among these, the use of metals for technological purposes has significantly impacted resource extraction, recycling, transportation, and waste disposal (Vyalov et al., 2022). As nations transition their energy matrices toward clean energy sources, the demand for metals such as copper (Cu)—used in transmission lines, batteries, and other technological devices—continues to rise (Zhang et al., 2022).
Copper is extensively exploited and utilized across diverse economic sectors, elevating the risk of environmental contamination through extraction and improper disposal. Agricultural practices, such as applying copper-based fungicides and fertilizing with animal manure, as well as industrial waste disposal and mining activities, all contribute to Cu accumulation in soils (Glibota et al., 2019).
Under natural conditions, copper serves as a critical cofactor in essential metabolic pathways. In soils, it typically occurs at background levels ranging from 2 to 119 mg Cu kg⁻¹ across nine soil classes (Fadigas et al., 2006). As an essential micronutrient, copper is indispensable to plants, animals, fungi, bacteria, protozoa, and other organisms, playing vital roles in growth, oxidative metabolism, and numerous biochemical reactions. Its unique physicochemical properties, including high electrical conductivity, render it a strategic material in contemporary society, especially given the demand for clean energy systems. Consequently, copper prospecting and recycling have intensified as global energy strategies shift toward sustainability.
The search for effective, efficient, and low-cost solutions to remediate contaminated sites has likewise intensified, particularly for ubiquitous contaminants such as copper. Among the available alternatives, phytoremediation—a bioremediation technique that employs plants, often in association with microorganisms—stands out for its efficiency, simplicity, low implementation costs, and broad public acceptance (Pires et al., 2003; Santana, Morales & Jacques, 2020).
Phytoremediation involves the use of plants, their rhizospheric microbiota, and soil amendments (e.g., fertilizers, organic matter) combined with agronomic practices to remove, immobilize, or neutralize contaminants in the environment (Accioly & Siqueira, 2000). Compared to conventional remediation techniques, phytoremediation offers notable advantages, including cost-effectiveness and decontamination efficacy (Cunningham et al., 1996; Perkovic et al., 1996). This technique can be applied to soils contaminated by a variety of organic and inorganic pollutants, including heavy metals, petroleum hydrocarbons, pesticides, explosives, chlorinated solvents, and industrial toxic by-products (Cunningham et al., 1996). Heavy metals, in particular, lend themselves to phytoremediation, as they do not readily form intermediate metabolites during biodegradation and can be more easily quantified in soils (Cunningham et al., 1996). The effectiveness of phytoremediation in remediating heavy-metal-contaminated soils has been demonstrated in several studies (Accioly & Siqueira, 2000).
Given these challenges and opportunities, identifying plant species that effectively mitigate copper contamination is crucial for protecting soils, subsoils, surface waters, and groundwater, while reducing risks to human and animal health. Immobilizing reactive copper species to reduce contamination impacts represents a viable remediation strategy.
This study therefore reviewed the literature from 2000 to 2025 to identify efficient plant species for the phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils. The timeframe reflects sustained scientific interest in this area and underscores the continued relevance of this ancient yet powerful technique for rehabilitating degraded landscapes. The review highlights plant species and their physiological traits that contribute to successful phytoremediation outcomes.
This study was a systematic review and analysis of scientific literature, conducted in structured stages to extract data on the frequency of studies identifying the most efficient plant species for the phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils. It constitutes meta-research, producing secondary data (Wottrich & Rosário, 2022). The originality of this research lies in its analysis of parameters that can guide the selection of plant species for future qualitative assessments, investigations of biochemical mechanisms, and the design of projects for managing contaminated areas. According to Jacks (2022), meta-research is characterized by:
In researchers’ investigative trajectories, meta-research can be conducted at various levels, with emphasis on theoretical-methodological inquiry. Equally important, however, are studies based on accumulated empirical results in a given field or on secondary data produced by official sources or market research institutes. Such data are crucial for constructing research objects that are informed by and articulated with the diverse fields surrounding them (Jacks, 2022, p.337).
The meta-research was conducted in several stages. First, the research problem was defined as identifying the most efficient plant species for phytoremediation. Selection criteria included efficiency indicators reported in the literature, as well as the number of relevant articles, book chapters, and reviews. Data were collected from online scientific publication databases, including the CAPES Journal Portal, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar, by searching for techniques and species used in the phytoremediation of copper-contaminated areas in Brazil between 2000 and 2025. The search employed the English and Portuguese terms ‘copper,’ ‘phytoremediation,’ ‘copper phytoremediation,’ ‘copper contamination’, ‘fitorremediação de cobre,’ and ‘contaminação por cobre’. In addition to journal databases, information was gathered from the websites of federal and state agencies, universities, and academic project directories. From the selected publications, information was filtered by identifying terms related to species used, efficiency data, and other parameters supporting this study’s conclusions. Eligibility criteria for selecting papers are presented in Table 1.
Table 1 – Criteria used to determine article eligibility
|
Eligibility |
Criterion |
|
Eligible papers |
Reporting plant species with demonstrated potential for copper phytoremediation in soils. |
|
Ineligible papers |
Reporting plant species with low potential for phytoremediation; Presenting alternative remediation methods in association with plants; Highlighting other goals unrelated to testing plant species’ phytoremediation potential; Showing tests for contaminants or metals other than copper; Consisting of literature reviews; Drawing conclusions not supporting the use of phytoremediation; Duplicating previously published work. |
Source: Authors, 2025
Based on a preliminary survey of academic papers, an exploratory reading of the selected articles was conducted. The analysis focused on cases of phytoremediation in copper-contaminated soils, considering plant species only, excluding engineered microorganisms and mycorrhizal fungi. Studies reporting low phytoremediation potential were disregarded, as the review targeted efficient plant species. The endemic ranges or successfully introduced regions of each highlighted species were identified, and their frequencies were incorporated into a global distribution map. The Pl@ntNet platform was consulted to supplement information from the articles and verify the geographic occurrences of the species.
Using the collected and processed data, a public database was compiled, containing relevant information on each species and their potential applications.
Phytoremediation can occur through various mechanisms, in which specific plant tissues absorb contaminants for decomposition, mobilization, and/or volatilization (Anselmo & Jones, 2005). Through data analysis and qualitative review, plant species with potential for phytoremediation in copper-contaminated areas were identified.
The use of the search terms “copper, phytoremediation,” “copper phytoremediation,” and “copper contamination” yielded 90 academic papers, of which 28 met the eligibility criteria. Analysis of these selected studies identified 51 species, belonging to 21 botanical families, with traits indicative of copper phytoremediation potential. Notably, certain families were more frequently represented: Fabaceae, with 11 species; Poaceae, with 10 species; Asteraceae, with 8 species; and Brassicaceae, with 3 species (Figure 1).
The Fabaceae family, which accounted for the largest number of species, demonstrates considerable potential for phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils, with traits that support both revegetation and phytoextraction. Some species in this family can accumulate up to 2.5 kg ha⁻¹ of copper, primarily stored in the roots, where concentrations as high as 115.5 mg kg⁻¹ have been reported (Widmer & Norgrove, 2022). These plants exhibit high bioconcentration factors, with some classified as copper hyperaccumulators, and show strong tolerance to soil contamination. Although translocation of copper to aboveground biomass is generally limited, certain species demonstrate enhanced transport and accumulation in shoots, further supporting their use in diverse remediation strategies (Silva et al., 2011, 2016). Moreover, species in this family are well suited for field cultivation, enhancing their practical applicability in restoring degraded areas (Martins et al., 2022). Together, these characteristics position Fabaceae as a valuable resource for mitigating the environmental impacts of copper contamination.
Figure 1 – Number of species identified as efficient for phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils, grouped by botanical family
Source: Authors, 2025
The Poaceae family, the second most represented, also exhibits remarkable phytoremediation potential, particularly in phytoextraction, phytomining, and phytostabilization. Some species, such as Avena sativa L. (oat), are recognized as hyperaccumulators, accumulating over 1,000 mg kg⁻¹ of copper in tissues, particularly in roots, where concentrations between 198.6 and 289.1 mg kg⁻¹ have been observed (Widmer & Norgrove, 2022). These grasses combine high resistance to metal exposure with strong establishment in contaminated areas, making them effective in remediating soils such as those in vineyards, which often have elevated copper levels. Their substantial biomass production, both above and below ground, contributes to efficient absorption and translocation of heavy metals, including copper and zinc (Tavares et al., 2013). Although copper accumulation is typically greater in roots, some species efficiently translocate copper to shoots as well (Tavares et al., 2013; Zand & Mühling, 2022). With demonstrated performance in both hydroponic systems and soil, and the ability to extract additional heavy metals such as chromium, lead, and mercury, Poaceae is emerging as a promising group for mitigating metal contamination in degraded environments (Singh & Pani, 2022).
Similarly, the Asteraceae family shows strong potential, with species exhibiting hyperaccumulation and tolerance to heavy metals. Reported copper concentrations in these species range from 34.0 to 440 mg kg⁻¹ of dry matter, with predominant storage in roots (103.3–319.1 mg kg⁻¹) (Afonso et al., 2020; Malayeri et al., 2008). These plants are well adapted to adverse conditions, such as nutrient-poor soils and high copper levels, although excessive copper can negatively impact growth and flowering (Menegaes et al., 2019, 2020). Some Asteraceae species are classified as high copper accumulators, with phytoextraction capacities up to 3.5 kg ha⁻¹, combining robust biomass production with efficient metal uptake (Afonso et al., 2019; Andreazza et al., 2015; Widmer & Norgrove, 2022). These attributes make Asteraceae valuable not only for reducing copper concentrations in soils but also for additional applications, such as biofuel production, reinforcing their strategic role in remediating contaminated areas.
Finally, Brassicaceae, the fourth most represented family, includes species recognized as hyperaccumulators of copper (Apori et al., 2018). Under experimental conditions, concentrations of up to 879 mg kg⁻¹ of copper in dry matter were reported at soil contamination levels of 150 mg kg⁻¹, demonstrating exceptional uptake and accumulation capacity (Apori et al., 2018). When cultivated in combination with other species, such as Salix nigra, Brassicaceae species produced greater overall biomass and achieved effective copper stabilization and extraction, with most of the metal retained in the roots (Massenet et al., 2021). These characteristics highlight Brassicaceae as a promising group for mitigating copper contamination, particularly due to their ability to support both phytoextraction and phytostabilization strategies.
Table 2 – Plant species identified as efficient for copper phytoremediation: their distribution and potential
|
N° |
SPECIES |
COMMON NAME |
FAMILY |
CURRENT OBSERVED DISTRIBUTION |
POTENCIAL |
REFERENCE |
|
Acacia mangium Willd. |
Mangium |
Fabaceae |
northwestern Australia (Queensland), Papua New Guinea and eastern Indonesia (Moluccas, Sula, and Aru Islands) |
Shows potential for revegetating contaminated areas |
Anselmo & Jones (2005) |
|
|
2 |
Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C.Greg. |
Pinto peanut |
Fabaceae |
South and Central America, Asia, Oceania |
Demonstrates strong phytoextraction potential, up to 2.5 kg ha⁻¹ of copper |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
3 |
Arundo donax (Giant Reed) |
Giant reed |
Poaceae |
temperate regions, as well as Europe, North Africa, and the Mediterranean |
Accumulates copper and chromium in its tissues |
Prelac et al. (2016) |
|
4 |
Arundo donax L. |
Giant reed |
Poaceae |
North America, Europe, southern Asia, and the subtropical regions of South America |
Accumulates copper and chromium, exhibiting phytoextraction capabilities in hydroponic systems |
Prelac et al. (2016) |
|
5 |
Avena sativa L. |
Oat |
Poaceae |
South America, the United States, Europe, Asia, and Oceania |
Considered a copper hyperaccumulator, with tissue concentrations exceeding 1,000 mg kg⁻¹ and high phytoextraction potential |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
6 |
Avena strigosa Schreb. |
Black oat |
Poaceae |
São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul States (Brazil), France |
Demonstrated phytoextraction potential under the soil and contamination conditions tested |
Panziera et al. (2018) |
|
7 |
Baccharis trimera (Less.) DC. |
Carqueja |
Asteraceae |
southern and southeastern Brazil (including Pará State), northwestern Argentina, Uruguay, Spain, and France |
Adapted to low-nutrient soils, tolerant to heavy metals, with copper concentrations up to 440 mg kg⁻¹ |
Afonso et al. (2019) |
|
8 |
Bidens pilosa L. |
Spanish needle |
Asteraceae |
South, Central, and North Americas; Africa; Europe; Asia; and Oceania |
Exhibits characteristics of a high copper hyperaccumulator, with phytoextraction potential up to 3.5 kg ha⁻¹ |
Andreazza et al. (2015), Widmer & Norgrove (2022), Afonso et al. (2019) |
|
9 |
Brachiaria decumbens Stapf |
Signal grass |
Poaceae |
native to Africa and dispersed throughout tropical regions |
Effective in copper phytoextraction in vineyard soils, with capacity for phytomining and phytostabilization through biomass production in shoots and roots, including root bioaccumulation |
Apori et al. (2018), Andreazza et al. (2013), Afonso et al. (2019) |
|
10 |
Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. |
Brown mustard or Indian mustard |
Brassicaceae |
Europe, the United States, southern Africa and South America, and India |
Reached copper concentrations of 879 mg kg⁻¹ dry mass in soils treated with 150 mg kg⁻¹ copper, confirming hyperaccumulator status |
Apori et al. (2018) |
|
11 |
Brassica napus L. |
Rapeseed or Canola |
Brassicaceae |
South, Central, and North Americas; Africa; Europe; Asia; and Oceania |
When co-planted with Salix nigra, achieved greater biomass, with most copper stabilized and extracted in the roots |
Massenet et al. (2021) |
|
12 |
Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC. |
Jack bean |
Fabaceae |
Brazil, India |
Exhibited increased copper concentration, accumulation, and transport to shoots |
Zancheta et al. (2011) |
|
13 |
Cecropia sp. |
Trumpet tree |
Urticaceae |
northern Brazil, Guyana |
Presented high bioconcentration in roots, qualifying as a copper hyperaccumulator |
Asensio et al. (2018) |
|
14 |
Cedrela fissilis Vell. |
Argentine cedar |
Meliaceae |
northeastern Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad-Tobago, Uruguay, and Venezuela |
Maintained dry matter gains up to 100 mg kg⁻¹ copper and showed bioconcentration in roots, with phytoremediation potential |
Caires et al. (2011), Asensio et al. (2018) |
|
15 |
Chenopodium album L. |
Lamb’s quarters |
Amaranthaceae |
South and North America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and Oceania |
Displayed an exceptional translocation factor, making it a strong candidate for copper phytoremediation |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
16 |
Chenopodium botrys L. |
Jerusalem oak or Feather geranium |
Amaranthaceae |
North America and Europe |
Classified as a high copper accumulator, with concentrations up to 56.0 mg kg⁻¹ dry weight (DW) |
Malayeri et al. (2008) |
|
17 |
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum L. |
Oxeye daisy |
Asteraceae |
South and North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania |
Accumulated copper mainly in the root system, ranging from 103.3 to 319.1 mg kg⁻¹ |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
18 |
Dendranthema grandiflora Tzevelev cv. Dark Fiji |
Chrysanthemum |
Asteraceae |
temperate regions of Asia, South America, Central America, and Europe |
Tolerated excess copper in soil, though higher levels negatively impacted development, including flowering |
Menegaes et al. (2020) |
|
19 |
Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Roberty |
Vetiver grass |
Poaceae |
Europe, India, and Saint-Denis |
Showed high resistance to copper exposure and viability in contaminated soils, with phytoremediation potential |
Mendonça et al. (2021) |
|
20 |
Cirsium comgestum |
Not identified |
Asteraceae |
Not identified |
Classified as a high copper accumulator, with tissue concentrations around 57.0 mg kg⁻¹ DW |
Malayeri et al. (2008) |
|
21 |
Copaifera langsdorffii Desf. |
Copaiba or Diesel tree |
Fabaceae |
Brazil and India |
Exhibited bioconcentration in roots, confirming hyperaccumulator characteristics |
Asensio et al. (2018) |
|
22 |
Corchorus capsularis L. |
White jute |
Malvaceae |
tropical and subtropical regions, India, Bangladesh, China, Thailand, Nepal, Nigeria, and Vietnam |
Corchorus species showed phytoremediation potential for heavy metals due to their physiological and morphological traits |
Saleem et al. (2020) |
|
23 |
Cousina sp. |
Not identified |
Asteraceae |
Not identified |
Classified as a high copper accumulator, with tissue concentrations of 34.0 mg kg⁻¹ DW |
Malayeri et al. (2008) |
|
24 |
Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf |
Lemongrass |
Poaceae |
South, Central, and North Americas; Europe; Africa; southern Asia; Australia; and New Zealand |
Identified as a potential phytoextractor of multiple metals, including mercury, lead, copper, chromium, nickel, cadmium, and arsenic, due to high biomass and absorption capacity |
Singh & Pani (2022) |
|
25 |
Cyperus rotundus L. |
Purple nutsedge |
Cyperaceae |
South, Central, and North Americas; Africa; Europe; Asia; and Oceania |
Proved more efficient in removing copper from soil despite being more susceptible to contamination, supporting its use in phytoremediation |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022), Mendonça et al. (2021) |
|
26 |
Dianthus chinensis L. |
China pink |
Caryophyllaceae |
native to China and invasive in Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania |
Tolerated excess copper without showing phytotoxicity, maintained ornamental value, and was recommended as a cover crop |
Menegaes et al. (2019, 2020) |
|
27 |
Elsholtzia splendens |
Copper plant or Shiny mint |
Lamiaceae |
China and Korea |
Grew normally with 80 mg kg⁻¹ copper in soil, exhibiting hyperaccumulator and copper-tolerant behavior |
Jiang et al. (2004), Xiao-e (2005) |
|
28 |
Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Vell.) Morong |
Ear tree or Pacara earpod tree |
Fabaceae |
native to Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, the United States, Africa, Europe, and Israel |
Tended to store copper in roots with low translocation to shoots, demonstrating tolerance to soil contamination |
Silva et al. (2011, 2016) |
|
29 |
Handroanthus serratifolius (Vahl) S.O.Grose |
Yellow trumpet tree |
Bignoniaceae |
Brazil, Guyana |
Exhibited root bioconcentration, indicating phytoremediation potential |
Asensio et al. (2018) |
|
30 |
Helianthus annuus L. |
Sunflower |
Asteraceae |
The Americas, Europe, and Asia |
Combined high biomass production and copper phytoaccumulation with biofuel potential, effectively reducing soil copper levels |
Tavares et al. (2013), Andreazza et al. (2014) |
|
31 |
Hymenaea courbaril L. |
Jatobá or Brazilian cherry |
Fabaceae |
South and Central Americas, Africa, and France |
Exhibited a bioconcentration factor in the roots, indicating potential for use in phytoremediation |
Asensio et al. (2018) |
|
32 |
Juncus effusus L. |
Common rush or Soft rush |
Juncaceae |
Southern South America, the United States, Europe, and Oceania |
Accumulated heavy metals in shoots, particularly cadmium, copper, and nickel; considered a hyperaccumulator, concentrating high levels of metals in the root system |
Afonso et al. (2019) |
|
33 |
Lafoensia pacari A.St.-Hil. |
Dedaleiro or Pacari |
Lythraceae |
Paraná and São Paulo States, and Brasília (Brazil) |
Seedlings showed higher tolerance to soil contamination and better quality at elevated copper doses |
Silva et al. (2012) |
|
34 |
Lolium multiflorum Lam |
Annual ryegrass |
Poaceae |
South America, the United States, Europe |
Accumulated copper mainly in roots, ranging from 198.6 to 289.1 mg kg⁻¹ |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
35 |
Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth. |
Sabiá or Thorn mimosa |
Fabaceae |
Brazil, Colombia |
Demonstrated root bioconcentration and hyperaccumulator characteristics |
Asensio et al. (2018) |
|
36 |
Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão |
Aroeira or Brazilian pepper tree |
Anacardiaceae |
São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso, and Pernambuco States in Brazil |
Demonstrated root bioconcentration and copper hyperaccumulator characteristics |
Asensio et al. (2018) |
|
37 |
Parapiptadenia rigida (Benth.) Brenan |
Angico or Rigida |
Fabaceae |
Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio Grande do Sul States in Brazil |
Showed increased tolerance to copper-contaminated soils |
Silva et al. (2011) |
|
38 |
Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) Steud. |
Princess tree or Empress tree |
Paulowniaceae |
The Americas, Europe, Asia, and Oceania |
Accumulated copper mainly in roots, ranging from 126.2 to 175.6 mg kg⁻¹ |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
39 |
Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub. |
Golden trumpet tree or Yellow poinciana |
Fabaceae |
Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, India, and Israel |
Tended to store copper in roots with limited translocation to shoots |
Silva et al. (2011) |
|
40 |
Plantago lanceolata L. |
Narrowleaf plantain or Ribwort plantain |
Plantaginaceae |
Southern South America, Mexico, the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand |
Exhibited the highest copper concentrations in shoots (142 mg kg⁻¹), roots (964 mg kg⁻¹), and whole plants (1,106 mg kg⁻¹), displaying traits of a high copper hyperaccumulator |
Andreazza et al. (2015), Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
41 |
Ricinus communis L. |
Castor bean or Castor oil plant |
Euphorbiaceae |
The Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania |
Classified as a copper hyperaccumulator, with tissue concentrations exceeding 1,000 mg kg⁻¹ and strong phytoextraction potential; also demonstrated high biomass production and tolerance to elevated heavy metal levels |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
42 |
Salix nigra Marshall |
Black willow |
Salicaceae |
The United States and Europe |
When co-planted with Brassica napus L., most copper accumulated in the roots, with increased overall biomass and maximum copper stabilization and extraction |
Massenet et al. (2021) |
|
43 |
Scariola orrientalis (Boiss.) Soják |
Not identified |
Asteraceae |
Asia |
Identified as a high copper accumulator, with tissue concentrations of 87.0 mg kg⁻¹ dry weight (DW) |
Malayeri et al. (2008) |
|
44 |
Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi |
Brazilian pepper tree |
Anacardiaceae |
Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, Peru, Dominican Republic, Mexico, the United States, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania |
Demonstrated tolerance to high copper doses |
Silva et al. (2011) |
|
45 |
Schizolobium amazonicum Huber ex Ducke |
Paricá or Yellow guapuruvu |
Fabaceae |
Brazil, Colombia, and Costa Rica |
Suitable for field cultivation |
Martins et al. (2022) |
|
46 |
Sorghum hirsutum L. |
Sorghum |
Poaceae |
Africa; midwestern India and Burma; Australia; the Americas; and southeastern Europe |
Effective in phytoextracting both copper and zinc |
Tavares et al. (2013) |
|
47 |
Verbascum speciosum Schrad. |
Showy mullein |
Scrophulariaceae |
The United States and Europe |
Identified as a high copper accumulator, with tissue concentrations of 40.0 mg kg⁻¹ DW |
Malayeri et al. (2008) |
|
48 |
Vicia sativa L. |
Common vetch |
Fabaceae |
South and North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania |
Accumulated copper predominantly in the root system, reaching 115.5 mg kg⁻¹ |
Widmer & Norgrove (2022) |
|
49 |
Zantedeschia spp. |
Calla lily or Arum |
Araceae |
native to Egypt and considered exotic in Colombia, the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania |
Tolerated cultivation in copper-contaminated soil; however, excessive copper negatively affected development, including flowering |
Menegaes et al. (2020) |
|
50 |
Zea mays L. |
Maize or Corn |
Poaceae |
The Americas, Europe, Asia, and Oceania |
Roots accumulated significantly higher copper levels than shoots, while producing greater dry biomass and demonstrating higher efficiency in translocating copper and zinc to the aerial parts |
Tavares et al. (2013), Zand & Mühling (2022) |
|
51 |
Brassica juncea L. |
Brown mustard or Indian mustard |
Brassicaceae |
Europe, the United States, and southern Africa |
Confirmed as a copper hyperaccumulator |
Apori et al. (2018) |
Source: Authors, 2025
The species Helianthus annuus L. (sunflower) exhibits key traits for phytoremediation, including high phytomass production, copper phytoaccumulation, and potential as a biofuel crop, effectively reducing soil copper concentrations (Andreazza et al., 2014; Tavares et al., 2013). Among the species that accumulate copper in their tissues, Arundo donax (giant reed) and Elsholzia splendens (copper plant) have also demonstrated strong potential (Jiang et al., 2004; Prelac et al., 2016; Xiao-E, 2005). According to Saleem et al. (2020), Corchorus capsularis (white jute) possesses desirable characteristics for phytoremediation, being valued in herbal medicine as a source of potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamins A, C, and E, and leaf protein. It has a deep taproot system, is tolerant to salinity stress, and can remediate metals such as copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb). Another species with notable phytoremediation potential is Brachiaria decumbens (signal grass), which has been used for copper phytoextraction in vineyard soils, demonstrating phytomining and phytostabilization capabilities through biomass production in both shoots and roots (Apori et al., 2018). Zea mays (corn), widely cultivated for food in the Americas, Europe, and Asia, produces substantial dry biomass and efficiently translocates copper and zinc to shoots, further supporting its potential in remediation strategies (Tavares et al., 2013). Native Brazilian species such as Baccharis trimera (carqueja) and Schizolobium amazonicum (paricá) have shown high copper tolerance and suitability for field cultivation, respectively (Martins et al., 2022).
3.1 Species distribution around the world
The copper-phytoremediating species identified in this meta-research are distributed globally, with the highest frequencies observed in South America, followed by Europe, Asia, North America, Africa, and Oceania, in that order, with ten countries being particularly prominent in the data (Figure 2). These findings reflect regions characterized by significant agricultural production, intensive mining, and other activities with high potential for soil contamination. Such countries demonstrate greater interest in research and implementation of projects aimed at mitigating the environmental impacts of agriculture, mining, and improper waste disposal.
Figure 2 – Worldwide distribution of plant species efficient in copper phytoremediation
Source: Authors, 2025
Among the 10 countries with the highest occurrences, Brazil stands out for its remarkable diversity of observed species, particularly native species. The United States ranks second, characterized by a high occurrence of invasive and cultivated species, reflecting its climatic diversity. India ranks third, with numerous tropical and subtropical species, including key agricultural crops. China follows in fourth place, notable for its high concentration of native and cultivated species, especially in temperate regions. Australia ranks fifth, distinguished by its unique flora as well as many exotic and invasive species.
In Brazil, 14 native species with potential for phytoremediation were identified, distributed widely across the country. This broad distribution facilitates their application and management, as these are species already well studied (Table 6). Among them, nine belong to the Fabaceae family, represented by legumes.
Table 3 – Native plant species of Brazil and their distribution
|
Species |
Common name |
Distribution |
|
Schizolobium amazonicum Huber ex Ducke |
Paricá or Yellow guapuruvu |
mainly in the Amazon |
|
Baccharis trimera (Less.) DC. |
Carqueja |
southern and southeastern Brazil, Pará, northwestern Argentina, and Uruguay |
|
Lafoensia pacari A.St.-Hil. |
Dedaleiro or Pacari |
Paraná and São Paulo State, and Brasília (Brazil) |
|
Parapiptadenia rigida (Benth.) Brenan |
Angico or Rigida |
Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio Grande do Sul States in Brazil |
|
Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub. |
Golden trumpet tree or Yellow poinciana |
Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina |
|
Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Vell.) Morong |
Ear tree or Pacara earpod tree |
native to Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina |
|
Cedrela fissilis Vell. |
Argentine cedar |
Brazil, Northeastern Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad-Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela |
|
Copaifera langsdorffii Desf. |
Copaiba or Diesel tree |
Brazil and India |
|
Hymenaea courbaril L. |
Jatobá or Brazilian cherry |
South and Central Americas, Africa, and France |
|
Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth. |
Sabiá or Thorn mimosa |
Brazil and Colombia |
|
Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão |
Aroeira or Brazilian pepper tree |
São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso, and Pernambuco State in Brazil |
|
Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C.Greg. |
Pinto peanut |
South and Central Americas, Asia, and Oceania |
|
Handroanthus serratifolius (Vahl) S.O.Grose |
Yellow trumpet tree |
Brazil and Guyana |
|
Cecropia spp. |
Trumpet tree |
northern Brazil and Guyana |
Source: Authors, 2025
The results demonstrated that the studied species possess traits relevant to the phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils. Notably, Cedrela fissilis Vell. (pink cedar) exhibited significant dry matter gain at a copper dose of 100 mg kg⁻¹, indicating tolerance to contamination and satisfactory growth at moderate metal concentrations (Asensio et al., 2018; Caires et al., 2011).
The species also exhibited high bioconcentration factors in the roots with limited translocation to shoots, reinforcing their ability to sequester copper in the root system and minimize its impact on aerial tissues. This trait was observed in several tree species, including Copaifera langsdorffii Desf. (copaiba or diesel tree), Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Vell.) Morong (ear tree or Pacara earpod tree), Handroanthus serratifolius (Vahl) S.O. Grose (yellow trumpet tree), Hymenaea courbaril L. (jatobá or Brazilian cherry), Mimosa caesalpiniifolia (sabiá or thorn mimosa), Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão (aroeira or Brazilian pepper tree), and Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub. (golden trumpet tree or yellow poinciana), all of which demonstrated greater tolerance to soil contamination, particularly at higher copper levels (Asensio et al., 2018).
In addition, Schizolobium amazonicum (paricá or yellow guapuruvu) seedlings showed suitability for field cultivation, supporting their use in revegetation and recovery of areas degraded by heavy metals (Martins et al., 2022). Collectively, these findings underscore the potential of these native Brazilian species for phytoremediation, highlighting their practical and environmental significance.
4 CONCLUSIONS
Phytoremediation is emerging as a promising in situ environmental decontamination technique, offering an alternative for mitigating the impacts of heavy metal contamination. Compared with other remediation methods, phytoremediation is socially acceptable, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable. Its key advantages include accessibility, low cost, and ease of implementation and control. Moreover, the diversity of plant species developed and studied over the past 25 years has facilitated seedling production and the application of various techniques across different climates, enabling its deployment at diverse scales and locations.
The results of this study demonstrated that the evaluated species possess physiological traits adapted to the phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils. Notable findings included dry matter accumulation at copper doses up to 100 mg kg⁻¹, tolerance to contamination, and satisfactory growth at moderate metal concentrations. The results also highlighted the use of forage and invasive species, which behave similarly to salt-stress-tolerant organisms, maintaining productivity with minimal cultural inputs (Hasanuzzaman & Fujita, 2023). These traits have motivated the design of phytoremediation studies, given their maintenance without major demands on cultural practices.
A critical factor for successful phytoremediation was the accessibility of both aboveground and root biomass, which facilitates harvesting and metal removal. Regarding metal uptake, the biochemical mechanisms involve the kinetics of heavy metal salt absorption and the induction of transporter activation in root cells, which are effective even at elevated soil metal levels (Silva et al., 2022). These findings support the use of herbaceous plants with relatively short life cycles, as reflected in studies of Corchorus capsularis L. (white jute) in India (Saleem et al., 2020), Sorghum hirsutum L. (sorghum) in Croatia and Ukraine (Prelac et al., 2016), and Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf (lemongrass) in India (Singh & Pani, 2022).
Among the 10 countries with the highest occurrence of copper-phytoremediating species, Brazil exhibited the greatest diversity, particularly of native species, followed by the United States, which is dominated by invasive and cultivated species reflecting its climatic diversity. India ranked third, characterized by tropical and subtropical species, including major agricultural crops. China ranked fourth, notable for its concentration of native and cultivated species, especially in temperate zones, while Australia ranked fifth, distinguished by its unique flora of exotic and invasive species.
In Brazil, 14 native species with potential for phytoremediation were identified, widely distributed across the country. Of these, nine belong to the Fabaceae family, which appears particularly effective at accumulating copper in plant tissues. Species from the Poaceae, Asteraceae, and Brassicaceae families were also associated with phytoremediation in copper-contaminated soils. The success of phytoremediation processes depends largely on a plant’s ability to grow in contaminated soils and its capacity to concentrate copper either in shoots or roots, depending on the biotransformation mechanism involved.
Among the plant families identified, Fabaceae stands out as the most effective in accumulating copper in plant tissues. Species from Poaceae, Asteraceae, and Brassicaceae also demonstrate potential for phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils. Further research is recommended to evaluate additional species across different climates and soil conditions. The main factors determining successful phytoremediation include the plant’s ability to grow without significant stress in contaminated soils and its capacity to translocate copper from roots to shoots, enabling biomass production and metal removal throughout development.
The authors thank CAPES for supporting the master’s program and Dr. Rodrigo Grazinoli Garrido for providing financial support for the professional translation.
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Authorship contributions
1 – Marcela Pinto Barbosa Vassar
Master’s degree in Sustainable Development Practices from the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro
https://orcid.org/0009-0005-6994-1882 • mavassar16@gmail.com
Contribution: Data, Curation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Software, Writing - orginal draft
2 – Fabiola de Sampaio Rodrigues Grazinoli Garrido
PhD in Agronomy from the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5177-1241 • fabiola_srg@yahoo.com.br
Contribution: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Funding acquisition, Investigation, Methodology, Project administration, Resources, Software, Supervison, Validation, Visualization, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing
3 – Fábio Souto Almeida
PhD in Environmental and Forestry Sciences from the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6214-397X • fbio_almeida@yahoo.com.br
Contribution: Conceptualization, Data, Curation, Formal Analysis, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – review & editing
How to quote this article
Vassar, M. P. B., Garrido, F. S. R. G., & Almeida, F. S. (2026). Efficient plant species for the phytoremediation of copper-contaminated soils. Ciencia e Natura, 48, e92979. DOI: 10.5902/2179460X92979. Available in: https://doi.org/10.5902/2179460X92979