Low photosynthetic capacity, nitrogen efficiency, chlorophyll and nitrogen concentration of Nepenthes pitchers was found, together with a set of features that characterized the carnivorous syndrome. Dual use of leaves for photosynthesis and nutrient gain can decrease photosynthetic efficiency in carnivorous plants in general.

Strategies of plants, known as metallophytes, in response to metal excess are explored. Specific features of medicinal plants related to metal exposition are discussed. Different parameters used for metallophyte classification are discussed. Bioaccumulation and translocation factors are characterized. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita L.), one of the most important medicinal plants, is presented as a case history. Based on actual knowledge of plant response to metal excess and published data related to chamomile, it has been concluded that this plant species is Cd hyper/ accumulator. Thus, chamomile can manifest high potential for cleaning-up (phytoremediation) of the soils contaminated with cadmium. However, it should be stressed that cultivation of this medicinal plant under natural conditions for pharmaceutical use should be carefully supervised.

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