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Plants suitable for use on Green Roofs in the Durban Area

Here are a number of plant species that are presently being tested for their suitability to be grown as Green Roof plants in this region that have initially shown good results. They all occur naturally within a radius of 50 km of the Durban city centre

Bulbine natalensis

Bulbine natalensis

Bulbine natalensis belonging to the family Asphodelaceae is found growing on rocky ledges and in hot dry stoney areas in full sun or semi-shade in a number of localities in the Durban area.

Growth habit
Bulbine natalensis is a rapid growing succulent plant, aloe-like in appearance, forming solitary rosettes

Propagation
Bulbine natalensis reproduce naturally by means of seed. In cultivation this plant is best propagated from seed, large clumps can also be subdivided.

Decorative value
These plants are being grown for their very attractive growth form as well as their very attractive flowers.

Drought resistance
These plants are surprisingly drought resistant.

Disease and pest resistance
They may rot during long periods of wet overcasr weather.

Suitability as Green Roof plants
These plants are valuable feature plants as well as ground covers because of the ease with which they establish themselves and their rapid growth habit. Under green roof conditions they have displayed extreme heat and drought tolerance and the ability to grow in very shallow dry soils. 

Biodiversity value in the Green Roof landscape
They attract large numbers of insects in particular honey bees.

Cautions and precautions in the Green Roof application
Care must be taken to ensure good drainage to prevent rotting especially during establishment.

green designs
For all of your Green Roof requirements contact Michael Hickman Specialist in Green Roof Technology at +27 82 061 2593 or email at info@ecoman.co.za


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Designed, Developed & Maintained by Michael Hickman
This page was last updated on 26.04.11