Explore Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Can't find the answer in our existing FAQs, submit a question to Mr. Smarty Plants.
Need help with plant identification, visit the plant identification page.
rate this answer
Friday - August 22, 2008
From: Laredo, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Green Roofs
Title: Plants for green roof in Laredo
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
Hello, I am working on a green roof, and I saw your section of "Native Green Roof", and I saw good plants that I would like to use, but I am not sure if they will be suitable because of the roots (maybe they are tap roots). I've researching but I haven't been able to find out, the plants that I am interested in are Penstemon triflorus, Phyla nodiflora, Salvia greggii, Salvia farinácea, and Dalea greggii. Thanks! P.S. My green roof would be between 6" and 16" deep, depending on the slope.ANSWER:
Please look at the Species List from Wildflower Center Research recommended for green roofs and you will find all the species you have listed are on this list along with 18 other species. They would work very well. You might also look at native wildflowers growing in your vicinity—especially ones growing in tough situations like in ditches or vacant lots with constant sun and heat. If they are doing well there with no particular care from anyone, they should do well on your green roof. I suggest, also, that you read the answer to a previous question about green roof plants for Monterrey, Mexico.
More Green Roofs Questions
Need Plants and Soil for a Green Roof in Buffalo, TX
September 13, 2010 - I'm building a green roof on my cabin in the Buffalo, Texas, area. Would you know what soil and plants would be best suited for that area? I have a lot of sand I could use, but didn't know if that...
view the full question and answer
Green wall panel for Dallas
August 21, 2007 - We are working on a green wall panel for a hotel near SMU--I see your list of recommended species for green roofs, & wondered if you have any ideas for vertical applications. Probably will have someth...
view the full question and answer
Plants for green roof gardens in Beijing, China
April 20, 2006 - I`m wondering if you would know what plants native to the area around Beijing China would be good candidates for extensive green roof gardens? Also, do you think that those hearty little pesky plants ...
view the full question and answer
Planning and designing a green roof from Austin
April 30, 2011 - I am in the planning stage to decide about planting a green roof as part of new construction. My ideal plant life on the green roof would have minimal root structure (deeper roots mean deeper soil mea...
view the full question and answer
Resources for a green roof project from Wayne PA
April 14, 2013 - Hello! I am researching a project to create a native wildflower/ turf mix for a green roof. I would ideally like to grow it as a sod mat, and then install it in rolls. I am currently working as an i...
view the full question and answer
 |
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. Mr. Smarty Plants wants you to be his Facebook friend. Click the Facebook icon to add yourself to Mr. Smarty Plants list of friends. |
