Crassula ovata

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

These plants occur naturally in shallow soils on the rocky cliffs in the Kloof, Hillcrest and Shongweni areas of Durban growing in full sun to medium shade

Growth habit
These plants are small to medium growing evergreen succulent shrubs seldom exceeding 2 metres, the stems as well as the leaves are highly succulent. They reproduce both vegetatively as well as by seed.These plants are extremely decorative feature plants having dark green succulent leaves and a very neat growth habit. They produce masses of white flowers edged with pink over a long period during the winter months

Drought resistance
In their natural habitat they are able to withstand reasonable periods of extreme drought due to their very succulent nature. From my experience of growing these plants I have found them to be very drought resistant.

Disease and pest resistance
These plants are generally disease resistant however they are often heavily fed upon by the larvae of butterflies which at times do considerable damage to the plants

Suitability as Green Roof plants
From my many years of experience with these plants and from indications of the plants that are being tested under Green Roof conditions these plants certainly give the impression that they are going to be excellent Green Roof feature plants where larger plants can be grown.

Biodiversity value in the Green Roof landscape
They create robust habitat and protection for other green roof dwellers. They are frequently fed on by the larvae of butterflies, when in flower they attract large numbers of pollinating insects in particular honey bees.

Cautions and precautions in the Green Roof application
None that I am aware of at the moment

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Bio-Diverse Indigenous Landscaping I design landscapes and gardens that are Bio-Diverse as well as being pleasing to the eye

Landscapes and Gardens that are Nature Friendly

I use my many years of landscape planning and design as well as landscape construction experience coupled to my vast knowledge of the requirements of nature to create habitat suitable for birds, butterflies and other creatures to live and breed in.

 

I always apply the basic principles of good landscape design to create an aesthetically pleasing garden that at the same time satisfies the living requirements of the target creatures that I would like to attract. My speciality is to attract birds, butterflies and solitary bees. I design and build Bio-Diverse Roof Gardens

 

So let Ecoman design and create a garden for you that will be a haven for wildlife such as birds, butterflies, frogs and lizards in the number of species comparable to Kruger National Park.

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