Effects of plant species in a horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetland - phytoremediation of treated urban wastewater with Cyperus alternifolius L. and Typha latifolia L. in the West of Sicily (Italy)

- Two emergent macrophytes were grown in a pilot constructed wetland system using secondary treated urban wastewater.
- Biomass yields and pollutant removal were evaluated under Mediterranean conditions.
- Nitrogen removal levels were lower than the organic matter removal in all treatments.
- Typha latifolia performed better than Cyperus alternifolius, both in terms of biomass production and nitrogen uptake.
- The use and choice of plant species significantly influence wastewater treatment processes.