Performance of native succulents, forbs, and grasses on an extensive green roof over four years in subtropical Australia

To achieve enduring low-maintenance green roofs that provide maximum benefit in the subtropics, plants need to be well adapted local climate with extensive coverage. The use of native contributes ecological restoration, yet there is very limited information available on their performance subtropics. This study aimed determine nine species Australian forbs, succulents, and grasses monofunctional functionally-mixed plant communities an roof Brisbane over four years. Green coverage survival were monitored via image analysis observational visits. Forbs established slowly, but successfully (82 % coverage, 67 after years) Hibbertia scandens (100 survival) Dianella brevipedunculata (58 recruitment) performing best. Grasses, including Themeda triandra, Poa labillardieri Cymbopogon refractus, achieved a fast initial (47 10 months), showed high seasonal variability declined 2 %. Contrary expectations, succulents performed poorly (<5 14 survival). had inverse trend successful plots (forbs, functionally-mixed) indicating gap-filling effect by species. Survival was more strongly linked individual than functional type or community arrangement. Based results this study, we recommend consideration plantings variety indigenous forbs for low maintenance resilient Habitats provided suitable coastal headlands, dunes, montane areas, open eucalypt forests. Analogous habitats other regions can explored find new increase palette potentially It would beneficial trial from these multiple years knowledge designers.