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DE82 014098 PLANTS FOR PASSIVE COOLING

AMP

DEPARTMENT OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF DESIGN

HARVARD UNIVERSITY CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS 02138
OF THIS ''OCl'[Link] "*''"'TEO
 DISCLAIMER

This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an

agency of the United States Government. Neither the United States
Government nor any agency Thereof, nor any of their employees,
makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal
liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or
usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process
disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately
owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product,
process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or
otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement,
recommendation, or favoring by the United States Government or any
agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein
do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States
Government or any agency thereof.
 DISCLAIMER

Portions of this document may be illegible in

electronic image products. Images are produced
from the best available original document.
 PLANTS FOR PASSIVE COOLING

A PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION

OF THE USE OF PLANTS FOR PASSIVE

---------------------------------------------------DISCLAIM ER -----------------------------------------------------------
j This book was prepared as an accouni o1 work sDonsoreci by an agency oi the United States Government,
Neither the United States Governrnent nor any agency th ereo f rtor any of their employees, makes any COOLING IN TEMPERATE HUMID CLIMATES
I warrsnty, express or implied, or assi-mes any legal lia b ilifv or rc-sponslbilitv for the acturacy,
comoleteness, or usefulness of any information, aoparatus, product, or orocess dlsdosed, or
represents that its use would not 'nfringe privately owned rights, Referen<:e herein to any specihc
i commercial [Link])[Link], process, or service by trade name, trademark, rnanu'acturer, or otherwise, does
t necessarily constitute or irnply its endorsernent, recommendation, or favoring by the United
I States Governrnent or any agency thereof. The views and opinions o f authors expressed herem do not
ecessarily state or reflect those o f the United States Government or any agency thereof.

Anne Whiston Spirn, Assistant Professor o f Landscape Architecture

Adele Naude Santos, Professor of Architecture and Urban Design

with

David A. Johnson, Research Assistant

Larry B. Harder, Research Assistant
Mark W. Rios, Research Assistant

A pril 1981

Department o f Landscape Architecture

Graduate School of Design, Harvard University
Subcontract Number 7872

fo r

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Solar and Special Studies Section, Energy Division
Contract Number W-7A05-eng-26 fijTfi;
 # # /•

Anne Whiston Spirn, Principal Investig ato r

Adele Naud^ Santos, Architectural Consultant
David A. Johnson, Research Assistant
Larry B. Harder, Research Assistant
Mark W. Rios, Research Assistant

Anne Whiston Spirn was responsible fo r overall d ire c tio n o f the Report prepared by
project. Ad^le Naude Santos collaborated on passive cooling
design applications. David A. Johnson was responsible fo r HARVARD UNIVERSITY
the l i t e r a t u r e search and the section on plant m aterials and Graduate School o f Design
contributed valuable ideas and review on other sections. Department of Landscape Architecture
Larry B. Harder and Mark W. Rios worked on processes o f energy Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138
tra n s fe r and passive cooling design objectives. Hugh Keegan
participated in the i n i t i a l stages of the project. under subcontract number 7872
Frederick E. Smith, Professor of Advanced Environmental Studies
in Resources and Ecology, provided valuable review and advice.
Drawings are by Adile Naud^ Santos, David A. Johnson, and
Mark W. Rios.

Conrad V. Chester, Head of the Solar and Special Studies

Section, Energy D ivision, Oak Ridge National Laboratory,
i n i t ia t e d the project and contributed ideas and comments. fo r

This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by the OAK RIDGE NATIONAL LABORATORY
United States Government. Neither the United States nor the Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830
Department of Energy nor any of th e ir employees, nor any of t h e ir operated by
contractors, subcontractors or t h e ir employees, makes any warranty, UNION CARBIDE CORPORATION
express or implied, or assumes any legal l i a b i l i t y or re s p o n s ib ility fo r the
fo r the accuracy, completeness or usfulness of any information, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
apparatus, product or process disclosed, or represents that it s
use would not in frin g e p riv a te ly owned rig h ts . Contract Number W-7405-eng-26
CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 1

LITERATURE REVIEW 3

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER 7

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES 17

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS 30

SELECTED PLANTS FOR PASSIVE COOLING 105

SELECTED PROJECTS 153

BIBLIOGRAPHY 160
 -1 -

INTRODUCTION

The Department of Landscape A rchitecture a t In response to these questions, the following

Harvard U nive rsity, under contract with the Oak research plan was pursued:
Ridge National Laboratory, has studied the poten­
t i a l of vegetation fo r cooling small, detached — Review the existing l i t e r a t u r e ;
re sid e n tia l and commercial structures. This
project is part of the work supported by the — Id e n tify a range of design strategies fo r
Passive Cooling Program of the U.S. Department of reducing the surface and in t e r i o r temperature of
Energy. The study was lim ite d to temperate, humid the building through the use of vegetation;
climates; i t does not address passive cooling in
hot, humid or hot, arid climates. This report — Demonstrate the application of passive cooling
documents the results of th a t research, including design strategies to building and landscape
a c r i t i c a l review of the l i t e r a t u r e , a b r ie f design elements;
review of energy tra n s fe r processes, a checklist
of design objectives fo r passive cooling, a demon­ — Id e n tify key building and s it e design issues
s tra tio n of design a p plications, and a p a le tte of associated with these design strategies such
selected plant species suitable fo r passive cooling, as maintenance, structural requirements, timing,
suitable plant types, and aesthetics;
The major research questions were:
— Id e n tify a pa le tte of selected plant species
— How can vegetation be used to cool small residen­ which are suitable fo r passive cooling in the
t i a l and commercial structures, and what is the temperate, eastern United States.
energy-saving potential of such techniques?
A major objective of the l i t e r a t u r e review was
— What is the s t a t e - o f - t h e - a r t , and what untried to determine the extent of q u a n tita tiv e data on the
techniques have high potential? reduction of building temperature and energy con­
sumption by vegetation and to determine the general
— How w i l l the use of vegetation fo r passive a p p lic a b ilit y o f these findings. Although there is
cooling a f f e c t the form, structural support l i t t l e qu an tita tiv e data on the a b i l i t y of plants
system, maintenance, and appearance of a to accomplish passive cooling, that data which does
building? e x is t is extremely promising. A systematic e x p lo i­
ta tio n o f landscaping around and on buildings can
— How can a design using vegetation fo r passive y ie ld substantial savings in energy consumption and
cooling be staged to be of immediate, as well in the s h if t of energy demands to off-peak hours.
as long-term, benefit? With a few notable exceptions, vegetation is
currently used mainly to provide shade from d ire c t
solar ra d ia tio n , and i t s f u l l potential fo r passive
cooling is seldom re alize d . Applied system atically,
plants may elim inate the need fo r a ir-c o n d itio n in g
in the r e la t iv e ly cool Northeast. In the warmer
Southeast, plants may reduce the amount of a i r -
conditioning required and s h i f t the energy demand
to off-peak hours. Plants should be employed to
manipulate the e n tire radiation environment, to
control a i r movement, and to achieve maximum heat
loss through evaporation. Plant species should be
c a re fu lly selected with regard to t h e ir physiology
and t h e ir appropriateness fo r s pecific cooling
functions and location.

Plants are only one element of the landscape

which may be exploited for passive cooling. The
judicious s itin g of buildings with respect to
waterbodies, landforms, and existing forests can
enhance passive cooling. Planting design should
also be integrated with overall building form to
achieve maximum cooling. These issues, however,
are beyond the scope of this preliminary study.
 -3-

LITERATURE REVIEW

The use of plants fo r passive cooling affords an 1) Modification of Microclimate by Vegetation

opportunity to elim inate or reduce a ir-c o n d itio n in g
in small structures. Widespread application o f this 2) Modification of Microclimate by Urbanization
technique is curren tly hampered by a fragmented
l i t e r a t u r e and by confusing, sometimes c o n flic tin g , 3) Climate and Architecture
findings. There is presently no overview of the
subject and no review o f the li t e r a t u r e and 4) Passive Cooling: Processes and General
current pra c tic e. This report provides an in t r o ­ Applications
duction to the li t e r a t u r e and discusses the use
of plants fo r passive cooling in temperate, humid 5) Passive Cooling and Architecture
c lim ates.
6) Passive Cooling and Vegetation
The li t e r a t u r e was surveyed to:
7) Architecture and the Use o f Vegetation on
— Id e n tify the s t a t e - o f - t h e - a r t in the use of Buildings
vegetation fo r passive cooling, e s pecially as
applied to temperate, humid regions; The f i r s t two and the fourth categories consist
p rim arily of monographs and a r t ic le s by clim atolo­
— Id e n tify techniques th a t are curren tly being gists and foresters. The th ird and seventh cate­
implemented; gories are mainly w ritte n by and fo r a rch itects and
landscape a rch ite cts . The f i f t h and sixth categories
— Id e n tify untried techniques with high p o te n tia l; are in te r d is c ip lin a ry . They consist of a r t ic le s and
conference papers by c lim a to lo g is ts , fo re s te rs ,
— Determine the extent o f q u a n tita tiv e data on a rc h ite c ts , landscape a rc h ite c ts , and engineers.
reduction of temperature and energy consumption
due to passive cooling by vegetation; The li t e r a t u r e of the past three decades f a l l s
into two major periods: the 1950's and the 1970's.
— Id e n tify areas fo r future research. Collaboration among landscape a r c h ite c ts , a r c h ite c ts ,
clim ato lo g is ts , and engineers produced a large body
The l i t e r a t u r e r e la tin g to vegetation and of l i t e r a t u r e on the integration of p lan ts, a rc h i­
passive cooling occurs in diverse categories and te c tu re , and climate in the 1950's. Deering (1953)
sources. Seven categories were defined in the outlined the processes by which plants accomplish
course of the l i t e r a t u r e review: passive cooling. Olgyay (1963) and Aronin (1953)
provided an introduction to climate and a rc h ite c tu re ;
 -4 -

Olgyay and Olgyay (1957) summarized the shading can s u b s ta n tia lly decrease both the d ire c t solar
e ffe c t of trees. White (1954) and Evans (1957) and the in fra re d radiation to which a building
showed how vegetation outside a building can be is subjected. The role of vegetation in c o ntrol­
manipulated to increase v e n tila tio n w ithin the lin g solar and thermal radiation is of primary
building and to d ire c t a irflo w around i t . From importance.
1949 to 1951, House Beautiful magazine published
a series of a r tic le s on "The Climate-Controlled Some research belies the common perception th a t
House" which demonstrated how plants, among other deciduous trees block radiation in summer and per­
design elements, could be used to accomplish mit penetration of substantial radiation in w inter.
passive cooling and heating in d if fe r e n t climates. In f a c t, deciduous trees vary widely in the amount
These studies have served as major sources fo r of radiation they allow to penetrate in w inter.
nearly three decades. Most arch ite ctu ra l monographs The density o f twigs and branches determines how
and a r tic le s s t i l l rely p rim arily on these e arly much radiation is r e fle c te d , d iffu s e d , or absorbed
works and do not incorporate more recent research by a leafle s s tre e . Some deciduous trees block
(Robinette, 1972 and 1977). more than 50% o f d ir e c t solar radiation in w in te r.
Preliminary research indicates th a t certain
The l i t e r a t u r e of the 1970's is growing, but is deciduous species, l i k e the sycamore, may block
fragmented and often c o n flic tin g , the l i t e r a t u r e nearly as much radiation in w inter as in summer
o f the design professions is la rg e ly d e riv a tiv e . (Johnson e t a l ., 1 9 8 0 ) . Tree species should be
The climatological li t e r a t u r e is mainly concerned selected which provide maximum summer shade, and
with metropolitan-scale phenomena which are d i f f i ­ which block the le a s t w inter sun. More research
c u lt to r e la te to a more local s itu a tio n (World in this area is needed.
Meteorological Association, 1970). When clim atolo­
gists do focus on the role of plants in the formation Most references use broad categories of size
of urban microclimate, they re fu te several assump­ (tre e ^ shrub, or groundcover) and geometry
tions commonly held by architects and landscape (columnar, sphe ric a l, conical) to recommend appro­
arch ite cts . H eisler and Herrington (1976) p ria te plants fo r passive cooling (Robinette, 1972;
dispel the b e li e f that trees lower a i r temperatures H eis le r and Herrington, 1976). Lesiuk (1978) urges
in the c it y . They maintain th a t an a lte r a tio n in the use o f a more precise selection system ta ilo re d
a i r temperature occurs only when a f o r e s t - l ik e to the character of a s p ecific s itu a tio n and based
environment is created, as in large parks, but that on the in te ra c tio n of heat tra n s fe r processes and
individuals or small groups of trees have a n e g li­ plant morphology. Lesiuk, drawing from the bio­
gible e f fe c t. The a i r temperature a t ground level logical l i t e r a t u r e , demonstrates that the shade
under a tree may be 20 F less than the temperatures provided by plants is a function of the angle of
a t ground level over an asphalt parking lo t in in c lin a tio n of leaves, t h e ir d is tr ib u tio n on the
d ire c t sun, but this difference is rapidly p la n t, the number of le a f layers through which
diffused by a i r movement. Although trees may not radiation must pass, and the geometry of the stand.
lower a i r temperatures around a b u ild in g , vegetation The amount of energy dissipated through
 -5-

evapo-transpiration also varies from species to aesthetics and to provide shade from d ire c t solar
species. Transpiration is a function of plant ra d ia tio n . It s f u l l potential fo r passive cooling
morphology ( e . g . , to ta l l e a f area, size and spacing is seldom re a lize d .
of stomata) as well as environmental factors ( e . g . ,
water a v a i l a b i l i t y , solar r a d ia tio n ). Energy Several areas hold great promise fo r future
dissipated through convection varies with shape research. The reduction of thermal radiation from
and size: lobed leaves are more e f f i c i e n t in surrounding surfaces and the significance of
dissipating energy than e n tir e leaves; small, narrow cooling through evapotranspiration are two impor­
leaves are more e f f i c i e n t than larg e , broad leaves ta n t areas fo r future research. Further research
(Lesiuk, 1978). r e la tin g plant morphology to passive cooling fo r
s p ecific situations is also l i k e l y to be rewarding.
There is l i t t l e q u a n tita tiv e data on the a b i l i t y
of plants to accomplish passive cooling o f small This study is a preliminary in v e s tig a tio n . A
structures, but th a t data which does e x is t is more comprehensive exploration of passive cooling
extremely promising. Deering (1956) observed a 20F techniques as applied to a range of building and
d ifference in maximum temperatures between the landscape types and of strategies such as s h iftin g
in t e r io r o f a house t r a i l e r in dense shade and in energy demands to off-peak hours is needed. Such
f u l l sun. In shade, the in t e r i o r temperature a study would advance the current s t a te - o f - t h e - a r t
remained over 75F fo r only 5 hours as compared to by permitting and promoting a systematic implemen­
11.5 hours in f u l l sun. Landsberg (1970) documented ta tio n of passive cooling strategies and techniques,
the formation of a heat island a f t e r sunset in a
small, paved courtyard w ith in an is o la te d , f iv e -
story building complex surrounded by lawn and trees.
The a i r temperature in the courtyard was 0.9F above
th a t over the lawn. This e f fe c t was caused by the
nightly release of heat absorbed in the pavement
and masonry during the day.

Parker (1979) measured a 35% reduction in energy

used fo r a i r conditioning of a mobile home in Miami,
Florida, only one year a f t e r the in s t a ll a t io n of
plants s t r a t e g ic a lly placed to provide passive
cooling. Parker designed the landscaping to reduce
heat gain by d ir e c t s u n lig h t, by re fle c te d and
emitted ra d ia tio n from surrounding surfaces, by
convection and conduction, and to increase heat loss
by convection and evaporation. This is an unusual
case. Vegetation is curren tly used mainly fo r
PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

Buildings gain and lose heat through four major

processes o f energy tran sfer: ra d ia tio n , conduction,
convection, and evaporation. Heat gain and loss
occur w ithin three zones: the building i n t e r i o r ,
the e x te r io r walls and roof, and the environment
surrounding the b u ild ing. Radiant energy, fo r
example, is transmitted to the building in t e r i o r
through transparent openings in the building shell
( e . g . , windows, s k y lig h ts ). In a d d itio n , some of
the radiant energy which strikes e x te r io r walls
and roof is absorbed and gradually conducted to
the in t e r i o r . Radiant energy is also absorbed by
the surrounding environment and the stored heat is
transferred to the building by ra d ia tio n , conduction,
or convection.

The following pages provide a b r i e f review o f

the processes by which buildings gain or lose heat.
Radiation is the primary source of heat gain.
D ire ct and in d ir e c t solar radiation are the most
important sources, but re fle c te d solar ra d ia tio n
and thermal radiation emitted from t e r r e s t r i a l
surfaces are also very s ig n if ic a n t . Evaporation
and convection are the major processes by which
heat loss may be accomplished. Radiation by
building walls and roof to heat sinks ( e . g . , c le a r
night sky) can a l ^ provide s ig n ific a n t heat loss.
A comprehensive d ^ ig n fo r passive cooling should
e x p lo it a ll four processes o f energy tra n s fe r to
prevent heat gain and encourage heat loss in a ll
three building zones.
PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

HOW BUILDINGS GAIN AND LOSE HEAT

D IR E C T K A P iA T I O M

HEAT GAIN PIEFU'S^ ANO 5PATTEAEP

Rapi IOM
- D irect Radiation

- In d ir e c t Radiation (d iffu s e and

scattered ra d ia tio n , back radiation
from the sky). REf=Lecrep
- Reflected Radiation. eMlTTEP RAP\AT|0M

- Emitted Radiation.
CPHPucreo H E-a t
- Convection. H £ A .T ” ^<>A|Nl

- Conduction.

- Generation of heat in building

in te rio r.
nAPlAri<i>Nl

HEAT LOSS 6Va P<?RAT/0M evAp/i^AriPM

- Radiation.

- Convection.

- Evaporation.
pAr
- Conduction.
C O M I7 H C T B P HSAT

H £ A T u o e e h e a -t u o e s
 -8 -

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

COMPONEiMTS OF TOTAL SOLAR RADIATION

Incident solar radiation may be O irF U s E

d ir e c t , d iffu s e , or re fle cte d .

O O H fO M B N T S OF iN C iP E fU r R A D i/> ^ T iO M

The proportion of d ire c t versus

diffuse radiation varies with
atmospheric c l a r i t y (a function of OUEAR 3K.Y H A Z Y OVERCAST

cloud cover, humidity, and partic u ­ \V („ PipruSE pippU'SE

la te s ) and with sun a lt it u d e .

h‘o V. OiRetTT Oif^ecX

Source: Givoni, Man, Climate and

Archi te c tu re , 1976.
PftorofiT lO M g. OF PlAECT PIFEPl6g FA P IAT i o M
 -9-

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

INCIDENT RADIATION

All radiation th a t is incident on any R E F 'U E c r I ONl TEAKlSM

substance--soIid, gaseous, or li q u i d —
must e ith e r be r e fle c te d , transm itted,
or absorbed.

The in te n s ity o f incident radiation

varies with the angle a t which ra d ia ­
tion strik es the surface. The more
perpendicular the angle of incidence,
the greater the in te n s ity . The angle FATE- OE IN & i p e , n T fiA .P I A T I Or-J
o f incidence is a function of solar
angle and the angle of the incident
surface.

The solar angle varies with time of

day, season of year, and la t it u d e .

) I I
AnIO^UE O f- IN C Ip g H c E AMP IN F E N e iT Y ' O F" f^A P iA T l«? N

L-ATITUDe

6UM)v\6P,
AH

WINtEft

a fF e c t\n ic p S o l-A H A s i 6? u e
 -10-

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

REFLECTION AND ABSORPTION

Radiation impinging on an opaque

surface is reflected or absorbed.

The amount of radiation refle cte d by a

substance is a function of:

- The angle of incidence

- R e fle c tiv ity of the surface

ANJ6»ue- IM C Ip g s J c g - A N /P fte p ^ L £ c T lc ? M
Absorbed energy is eventually
reradiated or emitted, unless con­
SNOW OLD SMCPW SAND
sumed in a process such as evaporation.

Aee BAAE E a a t H

Source: Trewartha (1968)

g>Up\PAC-& g’ P T & A A A lN (aL-6 E Po)

 -1 1 -

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

REFLECTION AND ABSORPTION

Dark-colored surfaces absorb more and

r e f l e c t less ra d ia tio n than l i g h t -
colored surfaces.

SURFACE. COUOl=^ ANP A & S O P vP T I O n I

Rough surfaces r e f l e c t d iffu s e ly in

a ll d irection s.

<3U piF A C E T&XTU«E; ANP R E F u ec-no M

 -12-

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

CONDUCTION: FACTORS AFFECTING AMOUNT AND RATE OF HEAT TRANSFER

The amount and rate of heat conducted

depends upon a substance's:

- conductivity

- homogeneity
S o iu

Cooling occurs when heat is removed T H e i« iK lA L - C C P K /p U c T i V l T Y AND f^ A T E HEAT

from the source and transferred by
molecular conduction to another
location. A eAAT&D ‘So i l C O M P A C T E -D ‘50IU

Insulation retards the tra n s fe r of °o °o°o o ° ° ° “

0 “ 00
heat by conduction. Insulation can O O o O q O o
be accomplished by interposing a
substance of low conductivity between o o o o o
o O O
the source of heat and cooler zones.
THEKMAU IT Y , A s iP HEAT TRAN

-)

g r= fE -c r or- in s u la tio n
 -1 3 -

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

CONVECTION

Convection is the tra n s fe r o f energy

by the movement of heated portions /
o f a f l u id or gas. Convection
involves physical movement, unlike I
conduction which takes place in a I
stationary system.
W A ftM COOU
Convective cooling occurs by the
tra n s fe r of heated material to another
location and it s replacement by cooler
m a te r ia l.

D iffe re n t land and water surfaces

absorb d if f e r e n t amounts of heat, and
heat or cool the a i r immediately above f \
to d if fe r in g degrees. Warm a i r rises
and is replaced by cooler a i r , causing
J
local winds and breezes.
coou

LANP A M I? eeA g f^ e e ze -

th e r m a l A lp s fA o V & K l& fJ T
 -1 4 -

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

CONVECTION: MODIFICATION OF WIND BY OBSTACLES

The direction and speed of wind are

altered as i t moves around an obstacle.
Variables determining these a lte ra tio n s c_
are the obstacle's:

- density
- surface texture ___. y
- height
- width
- length
- shape
- p r o file
- orientatio n
- size of openings

Of^ H£16=’ HT ^ W IP T H

Sources: Gandemer and Guyot (1976),

Shellard (1965), White (1954).

_
pejj-sE. Hec>6-g.
Eppec-r i3P DeKl<[Link]
 -15-

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

CONVECTION: MODIFICATION OF WIND BY OBSTACLES

Of-

eF»F=&c-r Of o fi\e u T fi< rio H

Source: Evans (1957).

Of ^1-^.0. o f
 -1 6 -

PROCESSES OF ENERGY TRANSFER

EVAPORATION

Evaporation is the transformation

of a liq u id to a gas. Considerable
energy, in the form of heat, is
required to accomplish the transforma­
tio n . In the process, heat is added
without raising the temperature. Thus
evaporation has a cooling e ff e c t .

The rate of evaporation depends upon:

- water av aila b le at the surface

- the degree to which that surface

is heated

- the humidity of the overlying a i r

- a i r motion

Roughly h a lf of the energy absorbed by

a tree is used fo r evapotranspiration.
Most of the rest is lo s t by radiation
and convection. Only a very small
amount is stored in the plant.

o
 -17 -

COOLING
p a s s iv e
DESIGN OBJECTIVES

To r e a liz e it s f u l l p o te n tia l, a design fo r techniques, implies the lack of plants (which

passive cooling must prevent heat gain and encourage would in h ib it radiant heat lo s s ). Preventing the
heat loss both within the i n t e r i o r and e x te r io r of i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds may be s ig n ific a n t in
the building i t s e l f and in the surrounding environ­ hot climates where a i r conditioning is used
ment. The following pages summarize the ways that extensively. The promotion o f evaporative
plants accomplish passive cooling. Design objec­ cooling should be used with caution in very humid
tives are organized by energy tra n s fe r processes: climates where an increase in humidity may increase
discomfort. The use of plants to accomplish
1) Prevent Heat Gain Through Radiation passive cooling through conduction has much less
potential than the other three processes.
2) Encourage Heat Loss Through Radiation
Many of the design objectives are complementary;
3) Prevent Heat Gain Through Convection others c o n f l ic t . A single row of tre e s , s t r a t e g i­
c a lly positioned, can both block d ire c t and r e f l e c ­
4) Encourage Heat Loss Through Convection ted radiation from building walls and funnel
breezes into the building. A solid cover of vines
5) Encourage Heat Loss Through Evaporation on building walls and roof, however, blocks d ir e c t ,
d iffu s e , and refle cte d ra d ia tio n , but also in h ib its
6) Prevent Heat Gain Through Conduction heat loss by radiation to the night sky. Comple­
mentary objectives must be integrated, and the
7) Encourage Heat Loss Through Conduction r e la t iv e importance of c o n flic tin g objectives must
be weighed and resolved fo r every s p ecific s itu a ­
The c h e c klis t of design objectives should be tio n .
used to promote the employment of the maximum
passive cooling s tra te g ie s . Not a l l the design Any design fo r passive cooling should apply more
objectives are equally important. Blocking d ire c t than one design ob jective. The next section of the
solar ra d ia tio n and encouraging v e n tila tio n and report, "Passive Cooling Design Applications,"
evaporation are the most widely recognized and the demonstrates the integration of many objectives
most s ig n if ic a n t . Less recognized, but equally within the design of one building or landscape
important is the need to block ra d ia tio n re fle c te d element. These applications are cross-referenced
and emitted by surrounding surfaces. The promotion with design objectives in the following pages.
of radiant heat loss to heat sinks, such as the
c lear night sky, is an u n d e ru tilized , though less
important, strategy. This, contrary to other
 -18-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

GOALS

Prevent Heat Gain

- D irect (within building and on

building walls and roof)

- In d ire c t (in surrounding e x te r io r

environment)

Pif^ecr IN P I fHECT

ppeVENr HEAT 6»AlM

Encourage Heat Loss

- D irect (from building i n t e r io r ,

w a lls , and roof)

- In d ire c t (from e x te r io r environment)

D l R&C.-T I N p ; Pi e c t

&Kice7tjfiA6>e HgAT i-oe>e

 -19-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

HOW PLANTS ACCOMPLISH COOLING

Plants prevent heat gain by:

1. Shading the building and

surrounding surfaces.

2. Blocking ra d ia tio n re fle cte d or

radiated from surrounding
surfaces.

3. In sulating building walls and

roof.

4. Blocking hot winds.

Plants enhance heat loss by:

5. D irecting and increasing v e locity

o f cool breezes.

6. Removing heat from the surrounding

environment through evapotrans­
pi ra tio n .

)
niintnmiiniiif
6?
 -2 0 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

1. AVOID HEAT GAIN THROUGH RADIATION

O D J g o T IV E A P P L lO A T IO M

lA. Avoid d ire c t solar radiation.

INTe«V6lslT10N
lA l. Block incident radiation.
\
Applications: Tree/shrub Wall
Planted Berm Wall, Peat Moss
Wall, Planter Wall, Stepped
Wall, Stepped Planters,
Window Planters, Window T A B e casi<3PY VINE
Planter Wall, Tree Screen, 1A1
Balcony Edge, Brise Soleil
Planters, Freestanding L a ttic e ,
Freestanding Planter Screen,
Vine-Covered W all, Vine-
Covered L a ttic e , Vine-Covered
Cables, Detached L a ttic e , IA a a Aa H A A A a a A a

Sliding Wall Planter, Sliding

Window P lanter, Hinged Planter
Screen, Pivoting Screen/
/
T r e l l i s , Roof L a ttic e , Turf
Roof, Roof Garden, T r e llis e d yiNie r’uANre-p
Roof Garden, Glazed Planter
Roof, Tree Canopy, Freestanding
1&1
T r e l l i s , Attached T r e l l i s ,
Fixed Wind Shade, Shade Court/
Sun Pocket.

IB. Avoid in d ire c t solar radiation

(d iffu s e and scattered radiation
from s k y ).

IB l. Block incident radiation from

sky.
Applications: See l A l .
 -21-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

1. AVOID HEAT GAIN THROUGH RADIATION (continued)

IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n . £?&j&orivE APPHC-ATl OhS

101. Block ra d ia tio n re fle c te d by
adjacent ground and w a lls .
Applications: See l A l .
102. Reduce ra d ia tio n re fle c te d by
surrounding ground and w a lls .
Applications: Tree/Shrub Wal 1,
Planted Berm W all, Tree Screen, 1C l / 1 DI VINie ‘iC^EE-N VVALL
Freestanding L a tt ic e , Freestand­
ing Planter Screen, Vine-Oovered
Cables, Sliding Wall P lanter,
Hinged Planter Screen, Pivoting
S c re e n /T r e llis , Tree Canopy,
Freestanding T r e l l i s , Attached
T r e l l i s , Plant Floor, Unit
Pavers in Grass, Grass Pavement,
Shade Court/Sun Pocket.

ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .

ID l. Block radiation emitted by 1C 2. fL A U T f ‘bof<Ee.^ Tf*vE.e wauu
adjacent ground and w a lls .
Applications: See lA l.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation
absorbed, stored, and emitted
by adjacent ground and w a lls .
Applications: See 102.
f-
itm n iin n

1P 2- P U A N T FLOOIA TAee c a n o p y
 -2 2 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

1. AVOID HEAT GAIN THROUGH RADIATION ( c o n t i n u e d )

o e j e c . r i N / & A P P L I O A T l(? N

103. Encourage emission of heat

stored by adjacent ground and
walls to heat sinks.

1P3 NPF^TH ‘o K'T N iP H T

 -2 3 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

2. ENCOURAGE HEAT LOSS THROUGH RADIATION

2A. Encourage emission of heat stored APPLIGATIOM

by building surfaces.

2A1. Expose building walls and

roof to heat sinks.”

N I (e H T ^K-Y
 -2 4 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

3. AVOID HEAT GAIN THROUGH CONVECTION

C 0 J EO T! VE A P rL io A T io N
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds.

3A1. Reduce wind speed.

Applications: Tree/shrub W a ll, ->

Planted Berm Wall, Tree Screen, A
Freestanding L a ttic e , Free­ yf \ /"I
: / 1 1 / I I
standing Planter Screen. : \ > -__
:
3A2. D eflect hot winds from building V IN E ^CF^B EN •SHAU© WAUL.
3A 1
Applications: Tree/shrub Wal1,
Planted Berm Wall, Stepped W all,
Stepped Planters, Tree Screen,
Freestanding L a ttic e , Free-
standing Planter Screen.

3A3. Insulate building.

Applications: Tree/shrub wal1,

Planted Berm Wall, Peat Moss
Wall, Planter Wall, Stepped TREB w aul- w aul-
Wall, Stepped Planters, Tree 3A2
Screen, Freestanding L a ttic e ,
Turf Roof, Roof Garden,
T re llis e d Roof Garden, Glazed
Planter Roof.

A A j^ A A ^ IA A

V IN E =e>CREBN
3 A3
 -2 5 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

3. AVOID HEAT GAIN THROUGH CONVECTION

O B J E C -T 'IV E .
SB. Prevent formation of hot winds.

3 B I. Reduce surface temperatures

in p revailin g wind directions.

Applications: Tree Screen,

Freestanding L a tt ic e ,
Freestanding Planter Screen, inu iin inin iini

Tree Canopy, Freestanding PLAstT rto o A rpvEE cAt^opy

T r e l l i s , Attached T r e l l i s , 361
Plant Floor, Unit Paver in
Grass, Grass Pavement.

E
 -2 6 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

4. ENCOURAGE HEAT LOSS THROUGH CONVECTION

4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes. OBJBcrwe APPLlC-ATl^’rJ

4A1. Direct cool breezes toward
building.
Applications: Tree/Shrub Wal1,
Planted Berm W all, Tree Screen,
Freestanding L a ttic e , Free­
standing Planter Screen, Tree
Canopy.
4A2. Increase wind speed. PUAnT WAL.U fL A N T WAUL,
Applications: See 4A1. 4A1
4A3. Permit penetration of cool
breezes.
Applications: Window Planters,
Window Planter W all, Tree Screen,
Freestanding L a ttic e , Freestand­
ing Planter Screen, Balcony Edge
Planter, Brise S oleil Planter,
Vine-covered Wall, Vine-covered
L a ttic e , Vine-Covered Cables,
Sliding Wall Planter, Sliding
Window Planter, Hinged Planter
Screen, Pivoting S c re e n /T re llis , 4A 2 PUANT WAUU T ftE E - G ANO pr

Tree Canopy, Freestanding T r e l­

l i s , Attached T r e l l i s , Fixed Win­
dow Shade, Shade Court/Sun Pocket

4B. Replace hot a i r next to bi building

wall and roof with cooler a i r .
4B1. Direct winds over wall and roof.
Applications: Tree/Shrub Wal1,
Planted Berm Wall, Stepped Wall,
Stepped Planters, Freestanding
Planter Screen, Freestanding ViNiE CAM£?P'T “S H A u e WAUU
L a ttic e , T re llis e d Roof Garden
 ■ 11 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

5. ENCOURAGE HEAT LOSS THROUGH EVAPORATION

OBje.C'TI'/e.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.

5A1. Increase number of plants. 9 •

Applications: A l l . f 1 * ^ t •
e

5A2. Plant in open soil rather / *

than pavement.
Applications: A l l . f-
■ 0
L

5B. Increase rate of evaporation. 5A1

5B1. Use plants which have the

potential to transpire large
amounts of water.
Applications: A l l .

5B2. Increase convection over

evaporative surfaces.
Applications: Tree/Shrub
Wall, Planted Berm W all, Tree
Screen, Freestanding L a t t ic e , PLANT Fuoop
Freestanding Planter Screen,
Tree Canopy.

5B3. Provide ample water supply

to plants.
Applications: A l l .

5^2.
 -2 8 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

6. AVOID HEAT GAIN THROUGH CONDUCTION

<5»&jecriv£ A f f Ul C A T t OM
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.

6A1. Block incident radiation

to ground surface.

Applications: Plant Wall,

Berm Wall, Tree Screen, Free­
standing Planter Screen, Vine-
covered Cables, Sliding Wall
Planter, Hinged Planter 6A1
Screen, Pivoting Screen
T r e l l i s , Tree Canopy, Free­
standing T r e l l i s , Attached
T r e l l i s , Plant Floor, Unit
Pavers in Grass.

6A2. Reduce conductivity of

ground.
-. af
6B. Cool adjacent ground.
6A2
6B1. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-
tran spiration next to ground
surface.

Applications: Plant Wall,

Berm Wall, Plant Floor.

6B1
 -29-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN OBJECTIVES

7. ENCOURAGE HEAT LOSS THROUGH CONDUCTION

ATFLICATi
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof.

7A1. Expose building walls and

roof to cool conductors.

Applications: Berm W all,

Peat Moss W all, Turf Roof,
Roof Garden, T r e llis e d
Roof Garden, Glazed Planter 7A1
Roof.

7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-

tran s p ira tio n next to
building walls and roof.

Applications: Plant Wall,

Berm W all, Stepped W all,
Stepped Planters, Vine-
Covered W all, Vine-Covered
L a tt ic e , Hinged Planter
Screen, Pivoting Screen/ 7A2
T r e l l i s , Roof L a ttic e , Turf
Roof, Roof Garden, T r e llis e d
Roof Garden, Glazed Planter
Roof.
 •30-

PASSIVE COOLING
DESIGN APPLICATIONS

A building or landscape design should e x p lo it 3) Screen: v e rtic a l surface which allows some
the maximum number of complementary-design s t r a t e ­ penetration of wind and l i g h t ( e . g . , row of
gies fo r passive cooling. The following pages deciduous tre e s , v e rtic a l l a t t i c e with vines):
demonstrate the potential fo r in teg ra tin g more
than one strategy into the design of seven types - tree screen
of landscape and building elements: w a lls , windows, - balcony edge
screens, roofs, canopies, flo o rs , and courts. - bris s o le il planter
T h ir ty -e ig h t design applications are il l u s t r a t e d . - freestanding planter screen
They are not comprehensive. They represent an - vine-covered wall
i n i t i a l exploration of how plants can be planted - vine-covered l a t t i c e
on and around small, detached buildings to accom­ - vine-covered cables
plish passive cooling. A range of options in terms - detatched l a t t i c e
o f expense, maintenance, and timing required to - s lid in g wall planter
achieve effectiveness were id e n t if ie d . - s lid in g window planter
- hinged p lan ter screen
1) W a ll: v e rtic a l surface which s ig n if ic a n t ly or - pivoting s c r e e n /tr e llis
completely blocks wind and lig h t ( e . g . , building
w a l l , dense hedge): 4) Roof: horizontal surface which is impenetrable
to l i g h t and p re c ip ita tio n ( e . g . , building roof):
- plant wall
- planted berm wall - roof l a t t i c e
- peat moss wall - t u r f roof
- planter wall - roof garden
- stepped wall - t r e l l i s e d roof garden
- stepped planters - glazed p lan ter roof
- tree/shrub wall
5) Canopy: horizontal surface which allows some
2) Window: an opening in a wall or screen: penetration o f l i g h t and p re c ip ita tio n ( e . g . ,
canopy of tre e s , t r e l l i s with vines):
- window planter
- window planter wall - tree canopy
- freestanding t r e l l i s
- attached t r e l l i s
- fix e d window shade
 •31.

- s lid in g window planter provide a major e ffe c t within six months to a

- pivoting s c r e e n /t r e llis year. Trees, however, may require ten years or
more to provide e ffe c tiv e shade. A landscape
6) Floor: ground surface surrounding building plan to promote passive cooling should be phased
( e . g . , lawn, pavement): to provide both immediate and long-term bene fits .

- plant flo o r Maintenance - A landscape plan fo r passive

- u n it pavers in grass cooling need not be expensive, nor need i t e n ta il
- grass pavement much maintenance. An added b e n e fit is that i t
may also increase the value o f a resid e n tia l
7) Court: e x te r io r space enclosed by a t le a s t two property, as well as enhance i t s appearance.
walls or screens: In s t a lla t io n and maintenance costs depend upon
the size and quantity of vegetation planted and
- shade court/sun pocket the type of structural support, i f any, required.
- hinged planter screen Vegetation planted d ir e c t ly in the ground is the
cheapest a lte rn a tiv e and the easiest to maintain.
Any a lte rn a tiv e requiring containers, such as
Several issues are addressed fo r each design planters or window boxes, e n ta ils more maintenance.
application: An a lte rn a tiv e requiring structural support,
especially i f integral to the o rig in a l building
Design Objectives and Design Strategies - The stru ctu re, such as a turfed ro o f, is high in both
general objectives and s p e c ific s trategies applied cost and maintenance. Essential to the success
are li s t e d to provide a cross-reference with the of any design using plants fo r passive cooling is
preceding section, "Passive Cooling Design the provision o f s u f fic ie n t water.
Objectives."
Location - The precise location of plants on
Suitable Plant Types - General categories of and around a building is c r i t i c a l to t h e ir cooling
plants are indicated. For s p e c ific plant species, function and to the resolution of such c o n flic ts
t h e ir c h a ra c te ris tic s , requirements, and cost, as summer cooling and winter heating or to pre­
r e fe r to the next section, "Selected Plants fo r venting radiant heat gain in daytime and encourag­
Passive Cooling." ing radiant heat loss at night. For example, a
high-branching tree planted close to the southern
Timing - The time required fo r vegetation to wall of a b u ild ing, may shade the wall in summer
accomplish e ff e c tiv e passive cooling depends upon when the sun is high in the sky, yet permit the
the growth ra te and shade density of individual penetration of sunlight in w inter when the sun
plant species and t h e ir size and spacing when is lower in the sky. Depending on the sp e c ific
in s t a lle d . Grass and other ground covers may passive cooling design o b je ctiv e, plants must be
provide an immediate e f f e c t , while vines may positioned with regard to solar angles and
 -32 -

orie n ta tio n at a given season and time o f day, to Employ s lid in g vine-covered screens which can be
angles of re fle c tio n from surrounding surfaces, to moved to provide shade when needed and to permit
the prevailing directions of cool summer breezes l i g h t to penetrate when there is no d ire c t sun or
and hot winds, among other considerations. in w inter (see Sliding Wall P lanter, Sliding
Window P la n te r, Hinged Planter Screen). Movable,
Advantages - Design applications which are vine-covered screens can also be used to create
inexpensive, independent of the existing building an outdoor shade court in summer which is trans­
structure, a t t r a c t iv e , and which serve more than formed into a sun pocket fo r f a l l , w in te r, and
one function are advantageous. spring (see Shade Court/Sun Pocket).

Disadvantages - Design applications Some of the passive cooling design strategies

which are expensive, integral to the building are common to a l l design applications; others
structure (and which therefore cannot be added apply to only a few. A ll design applications
to an existing b u ild in g ), and which c o n f l ic t with promote passive cooling by increasing both the
other functions are disadvantageous. evaporative surfaces and the rate of evaporation.
This is accomplished by increasing the number of
Conflicts often arise between passive cooling plants, planting in open soil rather than pavement,
using vegetation and other functions such as the and providing an ample water supply.
accommodation of parking and service or passive
heating in w inter. Unshaded pavement heats the
a i r immediately above i t and re fle c ts and emits
radiation to nearby building w a lls , thereby
increasing the bu ild in g 's heat load. Yet pavement
may be required fo r driveway and parking. Where
pavement is necessary, i t should be shaded by a
tree canopy or vine-covered t r e l l i s . A lte r n a tiv e ly ,
grass pavers may be used instead of the tr a d itio n a l
driveway, parking l o t , or sidewalk pavement. Grass
I
pavement has been in s ta lle d in a number o f r e s i­
dential and downtown areas, both in the United
States and Europe. The C ity of Dayton is moni­
toring the e ffe c t of it s downtown grass pavement
parking lo t on the surrounding a i r temperature
and radiation environment over a one-year period.

Conflicts with passive heating in w inter can

also be avoided. Select deciduous species which
block the least winter ra d ia tio n . Locate trees
with regard to winter and summer solar angles.
 -3 3 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: TREE/SHRUB WALL

Design Objectives feLeVAl'lON aAsi

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d radia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
HEEcre(A)
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds.
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes
4B. Replace hot a i r next to building
walls and roof with cooler a i r .
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
5B. Increase rate of evaporation.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.
6B. Cool adjacent ground.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof.
evepoeeE N TTeeE w a u .. ( b )
Suitable Plant Types
A) uense evergreen or deciduous shrubs
B) Dense evergreen trees
C) Densely planted deciduous trees and
t a l l shrubs

Timing
A) 5-10 years
6) 15-;:?0
■ years
C) 15-20 years
DECIDUOUS W ALD WITH SHEOBS CO
Maintenance
Low (high fo r sheared hedge)
 -3 4 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: PLANT WALL— SHADE WALL

Design Strategies
lAl Block incident radiation.
IB l. Block incident radiation from sky,
IC l. Block radiation reflected by
adjacent ground and w alls.
1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by
surrounding ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adja­
cent ground and w alls. 8AM KJOOSl
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation
absorbed, stored and emitted by SUMMEESOLAeANPLeS CWASMIMCrrOH O.C.
adjacent ground and w alls.
3A3. Insulate building.
6A1. Block incident radiation to
ground surface.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-trans-
p ira tio n next to building walls
and roof.
Location
- Position to block d ire c t sunlight
(see diagrams).
- Position between building and emit- H & \a U T Ot= P L A W T W A L L
t iv e surfaces, such as walls or pave­
ment.
- Distance from building depends upon
solar angles and height of shade wall.
Advantages
- R ela tiv ely inexpensive.
- May serve other functions.
- Can be added to an existing building.
Disadvantages
- Tree w all: r e la t iv e ly long time
(15-20 years) to become e ffe c tiv e .
- May block winter sun. P IS T A K C E P e o M B O IL O IM q
 -3 5 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: TREE/SHRUB WALL—WIND FUNNEL

Design Strategies
4A1. D ire ct cool breezes toward building
4A2. Increase wind speed.
4B1. D irect winds over walls and roof.
5B2. Increase convection over
evaporative surfaces.

Location
Upwind o f building in d irection of
p revailin g summer breezes.
Opening of funnel should be narrow in
proportion to height of wall and
located close to the building to
achieve maximum e f f e c t .

Advantages
E F F E C T O F L O C A T IO N ON S P E E D E F F E C -T O F S U B K A C E T E X T U E E O S l S P E E C >
- R e la tiv e ly inexpensive.
- May serve shade function as w e ll.
T A LL.,LO N O
- Can be added to an exis tin g building.

Disadvantages
- Tree wall: r e la t iv e ly long time (15-20
years) to become e f fe c t iv e .

6 F P B O T O F LEN Q TH + H E iq H T O N S P e £ D g F F B C T C r S lZ .e o F O P e N IH C ? O N S P & e D
 -3 6 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: TREE/SHRUB WALL-WIIMD SCOOP

Design Strategies

4A1. D irect cool breezes toward

building,
4A2. Increase wind speed.

Location

- Locate to capture prevailing breezes

(see diagram).

Advantages
ID C ATIO H O F W A L L IM RELA TIO W TO W INDOW O P E N IN G S A N D IN T E R -IO R V E N T !U A T IO N
R ela tiv ely inexpensive.
- May serve shade function as w e ll.
- Can be added to an existing building.

Disadvantages

- May block breezes from other than

prevailing d ire c tio n .

TALL<*-long ; SHOET

[Link] OF LfeNGTm <F H &lqFT ON AMOUNT O f= VENTILATION

 -37-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: TREE/SHRUB WALL— WIND RAMP

Design Strategies
3A2. D eflect hot winds from bu ild ing.

481. D irect winds over walls and roof.

582. Increase convection over evapora­ 4 ^
tiv e surfaces.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location A IR M O V E M E N T O V E R O B S T A C L E S

- Upwind of building in d ire c tio n of pre­

v a ilin g hot winds.
- Distance from building depends upon
whether a la y e r of cooled, in su lating
a i r between plants and building v e n ti­
la tio n is desired.

Advantages
- R e la tiv e ly inexpensive.
S L O P E OF S U R F A C E -F R O O F L I N E
- Serves m ultiple function o f d e fle c tin g
hot winds, removing hot a i r over roof
surface, and shading building w a lls .
- Can be addded to an existing b u ild ing.

Disadvantages
- Length of time to achieve effectiveness
(depends on height of b u ild in g ).
- May reduce v e n tila tio n from cool
breezes.
D IS T A N C E FROM BUILD I NO A N D V E M T L A T IO N OF B U IL D IN G W A L L
 -3 8 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: TREE/SHRUB WALL— WINDBREAK

Design Strategies

3A1. Reduce wind speed,

3A2. Deflect hot winds from building.

Location

- Upwind of building in direction of

prevailing hot winds.
- Only applicable in hot climates where
+A 4 h -*r-4h
advantages of blocking the hot winds
S H fe C T fe R E O A R E A
outweigh disadvantages from loss of
v e n tila tio n .

Advantages

- R ela tiv ely inexpensive.

- Can be added to an existing building.

Disadvantages

- May block cool breezes.

- Tree w all: r e la t iv e ly long time (15-20
years) to become e ffe c tiv e .
- May block cool breezes.

LOCATION
 -3 9 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: PLANTED BERM WALL

Purpose SECTION PLAN

IA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n , . V . ..t

back ra d ia tio n from sky).

IC. Avoid r e fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds. BeiSM W ITH GROUND ODVeK. (A )
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes
4B. Replace hot a i r next to building
walls and roof with cooler a i r .
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
5B. Increase ra te of evaporation.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.
6B. Cool adjacent ground.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types BEEM WITN •3HeU&S(B)

A) Groundcovers
B) Dense evergreen or deciduous shrubs
C) Densely planted deciduous trees and
t a l l shrubs

Timing

A) E ffe c tiv e w ithin six months.

B) 3-5 years
C) 10-15 years
e e R A I W IT H S H l s U B S A S IP T E f e e s ( c )
Maintenance - Low
 -4 0 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: PLANTED BERM WALL ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

See: Tree/shrub w a ll: shade wall

Tree/shrub w all: wind funnel
Tree/shrub w all: wind scoop
Tree/shrub w all: wind ramp
Tree/shrub wal1: windbreak

Location

Depends upon function. See: tree/shrub

w all: windbreak, wind funnel, wind
scoop, wind ramp, shade w a ll.

Advantages

- Earth berms give additional height.

- Uses le f t- o v e r f i l l .
- See tree/shrub w a ll: shade w a ll,
wind funnel, wind scoop, wind ramp,
windbreak.

Disadvantages

- Expensive i f f i l l must be imported.

- See tree/shrub w a ll: shade w a ll,
wind funnel, wind scoop, wind ramp,
windbreak.
 -4 1 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: PEAT MOSS WALL

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n . PEAT

Moss
IB. Avoid in d ire c t solar radiation lEWqWlOH ----
SQMiee4-tose
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n , PLANTS BBPOEd'
back radiation from sky). (N PEATMC^ CTO
■3rB«aoBeeB.i
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
WIRE MESH
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . ATTATCHEIP •e -SOIL
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n o f hot winds. TIES BUILT
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces. INTO WALL
■ VOATQSPeOOFCD.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from WALL

building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types 0^1 — F£AQRLV6L

= COLUMN
P"o“ootps
Groundcovers
SECTION OP PEAT MOeS EL^evATiOH — A v A B ie rrv o f p l a n t s c a w b &
Timing W A LL. A B ieA N C ieD IN P A TTE R N S

6 months to 1 year PLAN O F W A U L - M s e c e s w r n - t m o s s j - p a u in l ;

Maintenance
VARiABUe. PBOFIL.E
POSSIBLE FO E
Moderate; requires frequent watering WALL
and f e r t i l i z a t i o n
 -4 2 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: PEAT MOSS WALL ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

l A l. Block incident ra diation .

181. Block incident radiation from sky.
I C l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
I D l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
3A3. Insulate building.
5A2. Plant in open soil rather than
pavement.
7A1. Expose building walls and roof to
cool conductors.

Location: South, east or west wall

Advantages
- R ela tiv ely inexpensive
- No extensive structural requirements
- Renewable
- Potential seasonal plant v ariety
- Blends with surrounding landscape
- Can be added to an existing structure

Disadvantages
- R elatively impermanent
- Limited height
- Requires good waterproofing
- Moderately high plant maintenance
 -4 3 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: PLANTER WALL

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d radiation
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
7A. Encourage conduction o f heat from
building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types

Groundcovers, hanging shrubs, and vines

Timing EteyATtOK- SHOtOINAfcsrPLAN1SONBUILT

CDNCieETE PLANTING LeC G eS IN LED G ES

One year

Maintenance

High; must be watered and f e r t i l i z e d

frequently

A) Plant containers are interchangeable

B) Replanting required a t in te rv a ls

SBDTION THeOLGH Im ALL W ITH E L e v A T lO N SMOUJIWG P A T T E D

CXTTEESkilN OP B E tdC d -C O tJC E eT e OP PLA M TEE-S
PLAH TSES
 -4 4 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: PLANTER WALL ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

1A1. Block incident radiation.

IB l . Block incident radiation from sky,
IC l , Block radiation reflected by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
3A3. Insulate building.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and roof.

Location - East or west wall

Advantages

- F le x ib le , plants can be changed or

moved fo r v a riatio n in shading
- Permanent wall feature
- Provides insulation

Disadvantages

- Integral to orig inal structure

- Requires frequent watering
 -4 5 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: STEPPED WALL

Design Objectives
MIM-6 "O FSO IU qeOUMD COVG^

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n , -ci-€i2esTC>e.v
back ra d ia tio n from sky). WINPOVO
-lEewATksHusie.
IC. Avoid r e fle c te d ra d ia tio n . -pEAiW LINE
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
-cetUNq-HEia^r
3A. Avoid i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds. ■ + /- 7' 0 "
4B. Replace hot a i r next to building
walls and roof with cooler a i r .
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces. -G U 3S E T
7A. Encourage conduction o f heat from
building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types

S E c m O N -TH (5 0 W H s t e p p e d WAUG SHOW IKtO E l e v a t io n
S T O E A C iE ■!- W IN D O W S
Groundcovers, shrubs, and vines

Timing
Lowee
CBIUM4:;
1-3 years
i" .......‘ ..... . ---------- 1---------j
Maintenance
(XOSBT
High; depends upon plant material
selected

P L A N - SHOW INO STXDISAfiE A E E A

 -4 6 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: STEPPED WALL ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident radia tion .

181. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation reflected by
adjacent ground and w alls.
I D l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and walls.
3A2. Deflect hot winds from building.
3A3. Insulate building.
4B1. Direct winds over walls and roof.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location - East or west wall

Advantages

- External and internal functions are

complementary
- Permanent wall feature
- Provides insulation

Disadvantages

- Expensive
- Integral to i n i t i a l structure

References
 -47 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: STEPPED PLANTER

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n , - leeiGATioN
UKE.
back ra d ia tio n from sky). DEAIN U K B
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3A. Avoid i n f i l t r a t i o n o f hot winds.
4B. Replace hot a i r next to building
walls and roof with cooler a i r .
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof.
SECTION SflOIjJISJCk STEPPED PLANTEfeS
Suitable Plant Types 6 LEVATIOM O F S reP P E D pLA N T E iaS -O P P eE .
FEOM tq eA D E T O -PCOF LEi^eD lE V etS . l^ E D FOP PLANTS N eEW HQ LESS SOIL.i-
HINIMUM MAlW TENANCe^ FLOWeeS OH LOweELEUED
Groundcovers, shrubs, and vines

Timing

1-3 years

Maintenance

High; requires watering system and

careful selection of low maintenance
plants a t upper levels

PtAH - [Link] STEPS US&D FOB

HAHTEM AHCE
 -48 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WALL: STEPPED PLANTERS (continued)

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident ra diation ,

181. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation reflected by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
3A2. D eflect hot winds from building.
3A3. Insulate building.
4B1. D irect winds over walls and roof.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location - East or west walls

Advantages

- Building blends into landscape

- Provides insulation

Disadvantages

- Expensive
- Integral to i n i t i a l structure
 -4 9 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WINDOW: WINDOW PLANTERS

Design Objectives

IA, Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes
Suitable Plant Types *
A) In t e r io r vines
B) Annuals, perennials, groundcover,
or low shrubs

Timing
SECTIOM THieOOqH t=CAMreB B:) S eO tlO N THEOOGH TVPIC A L.
BerWEBH [Link]/H<3- W INDOW BOX
6 months - 1 year o p e w im q s t a n d a e o w i n d o w s
STOEACi e B S tO W plantee - ^

Maintenance

High; frequent watering

 -5 0 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WINDOW: WINDOW PLANTERS ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident radiation.

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation reflected by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.
Location South, east or west walls

Advantages
- Inexpensive
- May be added to an existing building
 ■51-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WINDOW: WINDOW PLANTER WALL

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation '•1----- ^ va^TILATlOW
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back ra d ia tio n from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . V ie w
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool -[Link]/ defth
breezes. --fo"

Suitable Plant Type - Groundcover, vines

Timing
13" +
4—>
1 year seCTlOKl THKOUGHCAVITYWAUL ELEVATlOki OF PLANTeR.S+ WIWPOWS
WITHCONCE-ET&PUANTE-ieS
Maintenance

Moderate; requires window cleaning

PUAM A T LO W eeuJiM D O W u e v e L
 -5 2 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

WINDOW: WINDOW PLANTER WALL (continued)

Design Strategies

1A1. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
I C l. Block radiation re fle cte d by
adjacent ground and walls.
I D l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and walls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes,
Location - South, east or west walls
Advantages

- Windows can be opened

- Allows breezes and sun while providing
shade and some insulation

Disadvantages

- Expensive
- Integral to orig inal building
construction
 -5 3 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: TREE SCREEN

Design Objectives E LE V A T IO N PLAN

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid r e fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds.
38. Prevent formation of hot winds,
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes,
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
58. Increase rate of evaporation.
COLUMNAR SHADETEEE CA)
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.
7A. Encourage conduction o f neat
from building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types

A) Low-branching columnar trees

8) High-branching trees

Timing

10 to 15 years depending on growth ra te

of tree and size when planted

n e U N < S C fe E E N ( B " )
Maintenance

Low
 -54-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: TREE SCREEN ( c o n t i n u e d )

Desiqn .Strategies Location

4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes Depends upon function.
shade screen: See tree/shrub w a ll: windbreak, wind funnel,
lAl Block incident ra diation , wind scoop, shade w a ll.
IBl Block incident radiation from sky.
ICl Block radiation reflected by Advantages
adjacent ground and w alls. - Can be added to exis tin g structure.
1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by - May serve m ultiple functions.
surrounding ground and w alls. - See advantages under tree-shrub w a ll.
I D l . Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls. Disadvantages
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation absorbed, - R e la tiv e ly long time to become e ffe c t iv e .
stored and emitted by adjacent - See disadvantages under tree/shrub w a ll.
ground and w alls.
3A3. Insulate building.
381. Reduce surface temperatures in pre­
v a ilin g wind directions.
6A1. Block incident radiation to ground
surface.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.
wind funnel screen:
4A1. Direct cool breezes toward building,
4A2. Increase wind speed.
481. Direct winds over walls and roof.
582. Increase convection over evapora­
tiv e surfaces.
wind scoop screen:
4A1. D irect cool breezes toward building,
4A2. Increase wind speed.
windbreak screen:
3A1. Reduce wind speed.
3A2. D eflect hot winds from building.
 -55 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: FREESTANDING LATTICE

Desiqn Objectives

IA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ire c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds.
3B. Prevent formation of hot winds.
IDJU]
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
5B. Increase rate of evaporation. rnYTf

6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent

ground.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from 9ECTIOW t h r o u g h F&EESrA,ts|[>IN C ; ELEVATIO W - SHOWING © H E L U E S FOR. PO TTED
building walls and roof. PLANTER, BCREE.N PLANTS

Suitable Plant Types p □ □ -...... □ q

:i ~ u ..... II - .... II SHAPED
3 u ■ q- ■ d PAviNq
Houseplants, annuals, groundcovers

Timing - E ffe c tiv e immediately

— —

Maintenance PLAN! - ONE FDSSIBLE a T N F iq u E A riO M

Very high; many small containers require

frequent watering; structure is exposed
to weather
 -5 6 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: FREESTANDING LATTICE ( c o n t i n u e d )

Desiqn Strategies wind scoop screen:

4A3. Permit penetration o f cool breezes, 4A1. D ire ct cool breezes toward bu ild ing.
4A2. Increase wind speed.
shade screen:
windbreak screen:
lA l. Block incident radia tio n .
I B l. Block incident radiation from sky. 3A1. Reduce wind speed.
I C l. Block radiation refle cte d by 3A2. D eflect hot winds from building.
adjacent ground and w alls.
1C2. Reduce radiation refle cte d by Location
surrounding ground and w alls.
- Depends upon function.
I D l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
- See tree/shrub w a ll: windbreak, wind funnel
ground and w alls.
wind scoop, shade w a ll.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation
absorbed, stored and emitted by
Advantages
adjacent ground and w alls.
3A3. Insulate building. - R e la tiv e ly inexpensive.
3B1. Reduce surface temperatures in - Flex ib le in use of plant m a te ria l.
prevailing wind directions. - Summer home f o r house plants.
6A1. Block incident radiation to - See advantages under tree/shrub w a ll.
ground surface.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-trans- Disadvantages
p ira tio n next to building walls
- R e la tiv e ly high maintenance.
and roof.
- Requires frequent watering.
- See disadvantages under tree/shrub w a ll.
wind funnel screen:
4A1. Direct cool breezes toward
building.
4A2. Increase wind speed.
4B1. D irect winds over walls and roof.
5B2. Increase convection over
evaporative surfaces.
 -5 7 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: FREESTANDING PLANTER SCREEN

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t s olar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation r
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n . -H A L F B L O O C •

ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .

3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds. -BLOOC
3B. Prevent formation of hot winds. SPAHHINc?
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes.
-VOID
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
SB. Increase rate of evaporation. Btoo^sow -PLA H TEB
E H D P IU B D Ijj
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent vjrrw€oiU-J/'
ground.

Suitable Plant Types 4

sectio v THBOuw-f cDNcefcrE blocj<- ELEVATION OF C O N C eeT E BLOCK.
PCAMTEE saefee.N ueiN G A
c o m b in a tio n o f f u l l * HALFSLOOCS
Groundcovers, vines.

Timing -S H A D 6 PLA-WTS

Six months to one year.

Maintenance p A -rto

Very high, requires frequent watering

and f e r t i l i z a t i o n .

PLAN - <3CI3eeH C tzeA T E S

P p o re c -T e p o u t d o o e . s p a c e
 -5 8 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: FREESTANDING PLANTER SCREEN (continued)

wind scoop screen:

Desiqn Strategies
4A1. D ire ct cool breezes toward building.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes, 4A2. Increase wind speed.

shade screen: windbreak screen:

lA l. Block incident radia tion , 3A1. Reduce wind speed.
IB l. Block incident radiation from sky. 3A2. D eflect hot winds from building.
IC l. Block radation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls. Location
1C2. Reduce radiation refle cte d by
- Depends upon function.
surrounding ground and w alls.
- See tree/shrub w a ll: windbreak, wind funnel,
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
wind scoop, shade w a ll.
adjacent ground and walls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation
Advantages
absorbed, stored and emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls. - R e la tiv e ly inexpensive.
3A3. Insulate building. - No structural maintenance.
3B1. Reduce surface temperatures in - Can be added to e xisting structure.
prevailing wind directions.
6A1. Block incident radiation to Disadvantages
ground surface.
- Requires frequent watering.

wind funnel screen:

4A1. D irect cool breezes toward
building.
4A2. Increase wind speed.
4B1. D irect winds over walls and roof.
5B2. Increase convection over
evaporative surfaces.
 -5 9 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: BALCONY EDGE PLANTER

Design Objectives

lA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

18. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back ra d ia tio n from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
PLANTeiS, P EO UI&59
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . PEIVACY TO AC-TIVITI e s
PLAMTEE IS
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool ^L BBLOW ATTEACTH/ETO
VIEW R 50M
breezes. :----- IN SID E
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
lEeiqATlOHUME

Suitable Plant Types e

AtS PEAIN UNE.
Groundcovers, shrubs, and vines

SECTION SHOUJIN<5 PLANTEPS E LE V A T IO N

Timing AS BALCONV EPCiE
SUPINGDOOES
1-2 years

Maintenance

Moderate to high

PLAN
 -5 0 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: BALCONY EDGE PLANTER ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation reflected by adja­
cent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.

Location

East, west or south w a ll.

Advantages

- Visual amenity.

Disadvantages

- Integral to i n i t i a l structure.
- R ela tiv ely expensive.
 ■61-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: BRISE SOLEIL PLANTER

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back ra d ia tio n from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool
breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
t\cces>s BJ\Lcr>UY
TO PLANTER,

AE6 DEiJKUKE
Suitable Plant Type

Groundcovers, shrubs, and vines

Timing

1-2 years
aiAss
IBEJOATIOHUNE POORS
BAUX5NY/PATIO
Maintenance _____

Moderate to high

secnoK showing ; tw o ueveL. s h a p e et-EL'ATIOH Op-SHAPE SCEBgN

SCREEN WITH BUIPT IN PLANTINC; BEOS
 - b z -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: BRISE SOLEIL PLANTER ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and walls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and walls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.

Location

East, west or south w a ll.

Advantages

- Visual amenity

Disadvantages

- Expensive.
- Integral to i n i t i a l structure.
 -63-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: VINE-COVERED WALL

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ire c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered radiation
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . PCASITTIED
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes, TO WALUAT
E w z u r STAGE
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces. OpqeOwTH
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from 1^ t^OOf=S
building walls and roof. -- BUILT IM

Suitable Plant Types

A) Vines with holdfasts and ro o tle ts .

B) Twining or climbing vines.
C E E E P eB S ON CEEEPGES ON ELEVATIO N - C O W T ^ L O F - QEOWTH
EOOqH W A U S b e j o o / b l o c ic PA TTEEN DIEF1CULT
Timing
Eq STONE- — WALLS - HOOPS
NATUIEAU HOLD B UILT IN TOALLOVaJ
One story: 6 months - 5 years depending T IE S [Link];

on growth rate of vine. GROWTH UP WALLS

Maintenance

Both require y e arly trimming to control

growth pattern.

A) Low to moderate.
B) Moderate to high, vines must be tie d
to hoops.
 -6 4 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: VINE-COVERED WALL ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location

- South, east, or west w alls.

Advantages

- R ela tiv ely inexpensive.

- Can be added to existing structure.

Disadvantages

- D i f f i c u l t to remove.
- Yearly pruning required to control
growth pattern.
 -65-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: VINE-COVERED LATTICE

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
7A. Encourage conduction o f heat from
building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types

v in e /
CBeEPEK-
Twining or climbing vines; espaliered
f r u i t tre e s , or large shrubs.

Timing
secnoN OP
la t t ic e , a tta tc h e d ELevATlOW O F tA T T IC E SftOUJINC; V A E IA B L B
PIEeCTUV TO UJAUL FiZAMINq OF UJINDOK); OIZID P D 6S IB U B
One story: 6 months to 5 years depending p e P E N P lM q ON
on growth rate of vine. N eeo fdbshade
^PtANTTVPE.
Maintenance

Low.
- Reguires y early pruning a t windows
and doors.
 -66 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: VINE-COVERED LATTICE ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident radia tion .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adja­
cent ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location

- South, east or west w alls.

Advantages

- R ela tiv ely inexpensive.

- Can be added to existing structure.

Disadvantages a
- D i f f i c u l t to remove.
- Yearly pruning required to control I
growth pattern.
 -6 7 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: VINE-COVERED CABLES

Desiqn Objectives
TEELUe m ade o f
CABLES d -M E 6 fl ATTATC4-IEI5
IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n . TO E A V ES <t EDGE O F P LA N T IN Q
IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n , -------------------------------
back ra d ia tio n from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool
breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.

Suitable Plant Types

Climbing and twining vines.

Timing SHAOe PCASnS GAP IKl S c e e E N TO A LL O W PAVED AC C ESS

ceSBPBtZOK CABLE.* VIEW F E O M W IN D O W TO DOOEW AV
w ie e M esH
One story: 6 months to 5 years scegen

depending on growth ra te of vine.

SIP
Maintenance
S IZ E O F G A P CAN
V A B Y - SCBEEN
Low. O X )L D B E A T % b‘
FtaoM W ALL -

p l a n t in g bed Foe CEEEPEES ON

s h a d e p la n ts T E E LLIS
 -68 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN; VINE-COVERED CABLES ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident radiation.

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by
surrounding ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation absorbed,
stored and emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.
6A1. Block incident radiation to
ground surface.

Location

- East, west or south w alls.

Advantages

R ela tiv ely inexpensive.

Independent of building s tru ctu re,
can be added to existing building.
Can be e a sily removed and maintained,
Creates shade garden.
 -6 9 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: DETACHED LATTICE

t A T n c B H E i^ ;i4 r r o
Design Objectives ^__ ALLOW FULL (C
S H A D E OF W A L L /-0

IA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
( d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back ra d ia tio n from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle cte d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
c A M T iL e u e e e D - >
suppocers
V < N E T I^ IW E O V
Suitable Plant Types T=P O M A I 2 A & E ^
OBwindow pLAsrreR!
Climbing or twining vines.
A) fullhek^ht lattice S') L A T T Ice A S WINDOW e u e v A r iO N o f p a e t ia l LA m ce
Timing P O S I T IO N E D T O A L L O W SH A D E
L I G H T T O W IN C X D W S T
b e e e z e a lo n o b u il d in g
One story: 6 months to 5 years depending F A C fe
on growth rate of vine.

Maintenance

Low.
 -7 0 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: DETACHED LATTICE ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

1A1. Block incident radiation

181. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation re fle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.

Location

East, west or south w alls.

Advantages

- R elatively inexpensive.
- Independent of building structure,
can be added to existing building.
 -7 1 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: SLIDING WALL PLANTER

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n . PLANTfeleS POE.

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation TEAIUNC? PCAMtS

(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,

back ra d ia tio n from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground. MESH OF
CABLES
Suitable Plant Types
A) Climbing or twining vines. j H eA vY
n suDisic;
B) Hanging groundcovers, climbing or a teace —yv
twining vines. In—J
VA BIASL6 L o w e e PLANTEiE
F o e c E e e P E R .s
Timing
A') PLANTEE. FOR. b ;> m u l t i- l e v e l
C R EEpeE PLAm ERS
One story: 6 months to 5 years depending
on growth rate o f vine.

Maintenance / SHAI>ED /
/ WINCOWS ^

High, both require frequent watering and

fe rtiliz a tio n .

plam tee sceeEN S s l id e S H A D E D A E S A FO R

ALONQ 7 0 SHADE WINDOWS -i- O U T D O O R L IV IN G
 -7 2 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN: SL ID IN G WALL PLANTER ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident radiation.

131. Block incident radiation from sky.
101. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
102. Reduce radiation reflected by
surrounding ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount o f radiation absorbed,
stored and emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.
6A1. Block incident radiation to ground
surface.

Location

East, west or south w a ll.

Advantages

- Flexible use, responds to changing

needs fo r sun c o n tro l.
- Independent of building structure,
can be added to existing structure.

Disadvantages

- Expensive.
- Requires structural maintenance.
 -73-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: SLIDING WINDOW PLANTER

t e e L U S - CEEEPEE. TE A IN E D U P WALCOE FEOM P Ix e tP PLANTCie,

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation HEAVY
SU PIN P
( d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
MESH OP''
back radiation from sky). C A B i-66
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted radia tio n .
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool
breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces. TEACfei FOE-SHAPE 1
PLANTS
Suitable Plant Types

Climbing or twining vines.

Timing
A ) SECTION THEOUGH SUPINO ELEVATION SHO UIM q WINDOW S C E EE N
Up to one year fo r window screen. WINDOW SCefeEN WITH F>CA,NTEE W ITH T E E U J S * PLANTEE
Six months to 5 years fo r t r e l l i s ,
depending on growth rate of vine.
FIVEP PLANTEE.
Mai ntenance UN6 of - O
Shape
High, requires frequent watering and
fe rtiliz a tio n .
SLIDINO P L A N T E E

PLAN OF S o e e E N WITH PCAWTE&

SECTIOM THEOOSH BASIC

SU D IN H WIWPOWSOBBEW
PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: SLID IN G WINDOW PLANTER ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA I. Block incident radia tio n .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration o f cool breezes.

Location

East, south or west w alls.

Advantages

- Flexible use, responds to changing

needs fo r sun c o n tro l.
- M ultiple uses of plants.
- Independent o f building stru c tu re ,
can be added to existing building.

Disadvantages

- Expensive.
I
- Requires structural maintenance.
 -75-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN/COURT: HINGED PLANTER SCREEN

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n . UNE OF
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . VJ(NDOVU
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool P LA N TB e W E jU /E S T D
breezes. FOSmON AUjCiW f o r , FUBXIBIUTY

Increase evaporative surfaces. dse^owAL cwASiae

5A.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent ioinx>2>w/ dooi^
ground.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof.
s e c rio M O F H iN Q B D s c fs e e w BCevATTONOFWlNCiED PCANTBe*
GUOSfePTO FOISM A WIMDOVaJ SCEeeM (N CLoSEPFOSmON
Suitable Plant Types SHADE.
w im cow / d o o e

Annuals, perennials, low groundcovers.

Timing
s c e e e s i in o p e n 7 CLOSeo POSITION
FDSmON
E ffe c tiv e immediately. PePINING THE,
T&eEAC E --------^

Maintenance

Very high, many small pots reguire FtA N SHOW INq P K O T ec T E D

frequent watering and f e r t i l i z a t i o n . reiBEAce

 -7 6 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN/COURT: HINGED PLANTER SCREEN ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
101. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
102. Reduce radiation re fle cte d by
surrounding ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation ab-
sorbed, stored and emitted by
adjacent ground and walls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.
6A1. Block incident radiation to ground
surface.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location

East, south or west w alls.

Advantages

- Flexible use, responds to changing

needs fo r sun control.
- M ultiple uses of plants.
- Independent of building s tru ctu re,
can be added to existing building.
Disadvantages
- Expensive.
- Requires structural maintenance.
- Pots require freauent watering.
 -7 7 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN/CANOPY: PIVOTING SCREEN/TRELLIS

Desiqn Objectives
FOLL-6 HApfePOSIT(ON FOP
PIVOT ^ P IV O riN Q POVTTEBS
IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n . 'I r
IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
PDL£ SUPPOET M
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n . HOBI-ZOU-tAL.
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . POSITION — PAETIAU
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool INV6ST1CAU - Viewj-
breezes. FDSmoN u q m possiBue.

5A. Increase evaporative surfaces. PIVOTS

6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent pol'bto peop up

ground. PLANTBB SOPPDET

, -HOOSlNq'^^
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof. BOUT

PIVOTINq P tA M TEE S IN PIVOTINq PIAHTEBS PIVOTINQ PtAINTHeS IN

Suitable Plant Types TBELLIS POSITION AS A SCEeBN eueVATlO W IN ecBEEKI
POSITION

Prostrate groundcovers.
q'O " TO M ATO t W A L -U « e iq i4T
Timing

6 months to 1 year.

Maintenance

High, containers require frequent

watering and f e r t i l i z a t i o n .
 -78 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

SCREEN/CANOPY: PIVOTING SCREEN/TRELLIS ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies
1A1. Block incident radiation.
IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation reflected by
adjacent ground and w alls.
102. Reduce radiation reflected by
surrounding ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation ab-
sorbed, stored and emitted by

4A3.
6A1.
adjacent ground and w alls.
Permit penetration of cool breezes.
Block incident radiation to ground
I
surface.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location
East, south or west w a lls .

Advantages
- Flexible use, responds to changing
needs fo r sun c o n tro l.
- M ultiple use of plants.
- Independent of building structure,
can be added to e xisting building.

Disadvantages
- Expensive.
- Requires structural maintenance.
Pots require frequent watering.
PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: ROOF LATTICE

Design Objectives LA TTIC e l+IWGEi3 TO ALLOW TOE.

CLEAWIWO O F l e a v e s
IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .
IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation CPEEPEE
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n , T6MW ED FKOM
qEAC>E
back radiation from sky). L E A V fe S T O © f e C L E A E E D
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n . AW U ALUr"

ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . KOOF 6 L O P E D - L E A V e S

5A. Increase evaporative surfaces. HOSED DOWN INTO CATCH MEMT
A E EA
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types

Twining and climbing vines.

Timing

6 months to 5 years depending on

A') SECTION O F P O O F L A T TIC E FO E FLAT B ) S e c n O N O F LA TTIC E O N SLOPED
growth rate of vine. E O O F WITH H IN G E D P A N E L S T O ALLOW E O O F - TO B E H O S E D DOW N OE
CUEANING SELF C L E A N IN G WITH H E A V Y
E A IN F A L L - L A IB G E C U T T E e F O ie .
Maintenance
LEAVES

Low to moderate.
 -8 0 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: ROOF LATTICE ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

1A1. Block incident radiation.

181. Block incident radiation from sky.
101. Block radiation reflected by
adjacent ground and w alls.
101. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location

Roof.

Advantages

- Very c o s t-e ffe c tiv e .

- Permits easy access fo r maintenance.
- Independent o f building s tru ctu re,
can be added to existing building.

Disadvantages

- Requires removal o f leaves.

 -81 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: TURF ROOF

Design Objectives
qeouN D covee
IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .
IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n , ■SOIL. 6*4-

back radiation from sky).

IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n o f hot winds.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types

Grass, groundcovers, low shrubs,

twining and climbing vines.

Timi nq
seoriow s h o u jis ic ; p la m te e eoo ps —s o il actts
6 months to 2 years, depending on AS IMSULATOIS
growth rate of plants selected.

Maintenance

Moderate.
 -82 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: TURF ROOF ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and walls.
3A3. Insulate building.
7A1. Expose building walls and roof to
cool conductors.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location

Roof.

Advantages

- Good insulation.

Disadvantages

- Expensive construction requires careful

waterproofing.
- D i f f i c u l t to maintain.
- Integral to building structure.
 -83 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: ROOF GARDEN

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,

IC.
back ra d ia tio n from sky).
Avoid r e fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
/K
+/-2'6" 1
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds.
l o w e e P C A N T E B S IN IN T B ia jo e -
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof. SECTION ©HOUOINq ALTE.iah4ATINQ PATTEEN OFPLANTeES.h WOODeMDECk;

Suitable Plant Types

Groundcovers, low shrubs, annuals and

perennials.

Timing

6 months to 1 year.
■ooo
Maintenance
O <G> O
c>oo
Moderate to high depending on plants O C C>
selected.
PCAN OF fDETTON OF EOOF GAEDeN
 -84 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: ROOF GARDEN ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident radiation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
3A3. Insulate building.
7A1. Expose building walls and roof to
cool conductors.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location

Roof.

Advantages

- Creates useful space on roof.

Disadvantages

- Expensive construction requires care­

ful waterproofing.
- D i f f i c u l t to maintain.
- Integral to building structure.
 -85-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: TRELLISED ROOF GARDEN

Design Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle cte d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . < V/tNES qeOWN (H1SODF
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n of hot winds, [Link]
4B. Replace hot a i r next to building
wall and roof with cooler a i r .
EXTEMSlVe PLA^^Tees
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
ADS DRAIN UNE.
building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types

BUILPINC!
STEPS T D B E S E LF
Climbing and twining vines, t r a i l i n g S H A D IM q
groundcovers, shrubs a t base of wal1

Timing

2 to 5 years.

Maintenance
S6CTIO SI SHOUJIMO E O O F G A E D E N SH A D E D
Moderate to high. BT V IN E C O V E E E D T E E U J S QIWINa D OUBue.
PECrrECTlOW ( P L A N S IM ID A E .T O 'R O O F G A Ie D E N ’ )
 -86 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: TRELLISED ROOF GARDEN ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strate^^ies

1A1. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation re fle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
3A3. Insulate building.
4B1. D irect winds over walls and roof.
7A1. Expose building walls and roof to
cool conductors.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
t i on next to building walls and
roof.

Location

Roof.

Advantages

- Creates u s e fu l, shaded space on roof.

Disadvantages

- Expensive construction requires care­

ful waterproofing.
- D i f f i c u l t to maintain.
- Integral to building structure.
 -87-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: GLAZED PLANTER ROOF

Desiqn Objectives PETCipuou's ceeepEE

tpiESBfCiCIMWISITEP^)
IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .
IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back ra d ia tio n from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n . FiureeeDsuMMee-uQHT
3A. Prevent i n f i l t r a t i o n o f hot winds.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
7A. Encourage conduction of heat from
building walls and roof.

Suitable Plant Types

=S5
nil 1 1
Deciduous vines and t r a i l i n g ground­ L
covers. V

Timing s e c r io w T»eooc,H p l a z b d p c a s it e b e c o f

2 to 5 years.

Maintenance

Moderate.
 -8 8 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

ROOF: GLAZED PLANTER ROOF ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident ra diation .

I B l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
3A3. Insulate building.
7A1. Expose building walls and roof to
cool conductors.
7A2. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to building walls and
roof.

Location

Roof.

Advantages

- Shade ( f i l t e r e d l i g h t ) in summer, sun

penetration in w inter.
- Provides insulation.

Disadvantages

- Expensive construction requires care­

ful water proofing.
- D i f f i c u l t to maintain.
- Integral to building structure.
 -8 9 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: TREE CANOPY

Desiqn Objectives

IA. Avoid d ir e c t s o la r ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back ra d ia tio n from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3B. Prevent formation of hot winds.
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool
breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
5B. Increase rate o f evaporation.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent SINGL-E T E E E
ground.

Suitable Plant Types

High-branching deciduous or evergreen

trees.

Timing

5 to 20 years (depending upon size of

trees when planted and spacing
between tre e s ) .

Maintenance

Low.
C « D V E O F T E E .E B
 -9 0 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: TREE CANOPY ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Objectives
1A1. Block incident radiation.
IB l. Block incident radiation from sky,
1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by sur­
rounding ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation
absorbed, stored and emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
3B1. Reduce surface temperatures in
prevailin g wind directions.
4A1. D irect cool breezes toward feA S T A M O B VO eS TPM SO UTH N O O N
building. O B ie K T A T IO M A M D D IS T A N C E F B D M B U IU > IN c ;
4A2. Increase wind speed.
4A3. Permit penetration o f cool breezes.
5B2. Increase convection over evapora­
tiv e surfaces.
6A1. Block incident radiation to
ground surface.

Location ^ i\
- Position to shade building w a lls ,
— ,/ E g
roof, and pavement around and upwind
of building.
- Location depends upon o rientatio n and V J IN D S P E E D + D IS T A M C E F B O M B U IL D IN C ;
solar angles (see diagram).
- Position close to window or door to
increase v e n tila tio n (see diagram).

Advantages
- Can be added to existing building.
- May serve m ultiple functions.

Disadvantages
- R elatively long time to become effec-
t i ve.
 -9 1 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: FREESTANDING CANOPY

Desiqn Objectives

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3B. Prevent formation of hot winds.
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool
breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.
<oECT10Sl TR EO U Q fl C B G E P ee CO VEEeD
Suitable Plant Types d S E e P B E e T E A IM E D O P T H E 'o T E U c rrU E e FE O M
Q R A D E , O e F D e (JUICE EESULTS PLAM TB ES BOlUT
Climbing and twining vines. IWTOreeujs

Timing

6 months to 5 years depending on

growth rate of vine.

Maintenance

Low (moderate u n til established).

 -92 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: FREESTANDING CANOPY ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident radiation.

181. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation reflected by adja­
cent ground and w a lls .
1C2. Reduce radiation refle cte d by
surrounding ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount o f radiation absorbed,
stored and emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
3B1, Reduce surface temperatures in
prevailing wind directions.
4A3. Permit penetration o f cool breezes.
6A1. Block incident radiation to ground
surface.

Location

- To east, south or west o f building.

- Over pavement around building ( e . g . ,
p a tio , sidewalks, parking).

Advantages

- R ela tiv ely inexpensive.

- Low maintenance.
- Provides shaded outdoor space.
- Independent of building structure.
 -93 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: ATTACHED TRELLIS

lA T n C B ANC,L,BD "TO A L - U X J
Design Objectives w fw r e e .s o w + b l o c k ,
9UMMEESUN
IA. Avoid d ir e c t solar ra d ia tio n .
IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3B. Prevent formation of hot winds.
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool FoecH
breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
.SLID IN G QLAS5 DOOe.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.

Suitable Plant Types s e c t i o n TH EOOCiHTEELLIS A S B A v e S B X T E N S IO N

Climbing and twining vines.

Timing

6 months to 5 years depending on

growth ra te of vine.

Maintenance

Low (moderate u n til established.

PLAN OF FOISCH SHADED B Y U A m cE ,

 -94 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: ATTACHED TRELLIS ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

lA l. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Blockradiation re fle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by
surrounding ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation absorbed,
stored and emitted by adjacent
ground and w alls.
3B1. Reduce surface temperatures in
prevailing wind directions.
4A1. Direct cool breezes toward building.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool breezes.
6A1. Block incident radiation to ground
surface.

Location
- To east, south or west of building.
- Over pavement around building ( e . g . ,
p a tio , sidewalks, parking).

Advantages

R ela tiv ely inexpensive.

Low maintenance.
Provides shaded outdoor space.
Independent of building stru c tu re , can
be added to existing building.
 -9 5 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: FIXED WINDOW SHADE WITH PLANTS

Desiqn Objectives ANlCiL/EOp- uouviee

noAUOW5UNUa+fT
IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n . IHlOINTEie— UHeOPlOlNPOVO BeWfSD

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation IN

(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool
breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.

Suitable Plant Types

se criO N 6HOUJ1MP p^cxTEoreD EL^EL^ATIOM- PARTIAL CLBAIS. VIEW

Climbing and twining vine or t r a i l i n g A N G U eO W IMPOW SH AD E . IS E E T A IM E D

groundcover.

Timing

1 to 3 years.

Maintenance

High, requires frequent watering and

fe rtiliz a tio n . PLAN aib e a o f s h a d e t o w in d o w SI2,e.
DEPeNDS OWCE.1TICAUSON A U C ;U B S
 -96 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

CANOPY: FIXED WINDOW SHADE

Design Objectives

lA l. Block incident ra diation .

IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation refle cte d by
adjacent ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by X
adjacent ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration of cool
breezes.

Location

South window. SL)MME& ( J U N E 2 Z .) N O O N iO lN T E E C D e C .2 Z 5 N O O N

Advantages AKIC;LE: OrTEELUS ANC>SOUAE-ANQLE. FOE SOUTHEEN WJALU

- R ela tiv ely inexpensive.

- Independent of building structure,
can be added to existing building.

Disadvantages

- R ela tiv ely high maintenance.

 -97-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

FLOOR: PLANT FLOOR

Desiqn Objectives
SE .C TIO N PLAN

IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .

ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3B. Prevent formation of hot winds.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.
6B. Cool adjacent ground.
GEASS (A^)
Suitable Plant Types

A) Grass.
B) Groundcovers.
C) Low shrubs.

Timing

A) 6 months.
B) 1 to 3 years.
C) 3 to 5 years.
G E O U H D C O V ER . Cb )
Maintenance

Low.

LOW E H E U B S ( c ) r y n x r - ^
 -9 8 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

FLOOR: PLANT FLOOR ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by

adjacent ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation absorbed,
stored and emitted by adjacent
ground and walls.
3B1. Reduce surface temperatures in
prevailing wind directions.
6A1. Block incident radiation to ground
surface.
6B1. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to ground surface.

Location

Ground surrounding building.

Advantages

- Low maintenance.
- Inexpensive.
- Can be added around existing building.
- Achieves rapid e f f e c t .

Disadvantages

- Inappropriate in areas which receive

intensive use, such as building access,
parking, or service.
 -99-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

FLOOR: UNIT PAVERS IN GRASS

Desiqn Objectives

IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n . SMALL. P A V 6 E S lAFaCife PAVEES

ID. Avoid emitted ra d ia tio n .
3B. Prevent formation of hot winds.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.
6B. Cool adjacent ground.

Suitable Plant Types

Prostrate groundcovers and grass.

&[Link]. e r e

Timing

6 months.

Maintenance

Moderate.
 -10 0-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

FLOOR: UNIT PAVERS IN GRASS (continued)

Design Strategies

1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by

adjacent ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation
absorbed, stored and emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
3B1. Reduce surface temperatures in
prevailin g wind directions.
6A1. Block incident radiation to
ground surface.
6B1. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to ground surface.

Location

Ground surrounding building wherever

pavement is necessary ( e . g . , walkways,
patios, driveway)

Advantages

- Achieves immediate e ffe c t.

- R ela tiv ely low maintenance.
- Can be added around existing building.

Disadvantages

- More expensive than asphalt or poured

concrete pavement.
 -1 0 1 '

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

FLOOR: GRASS PAVEMENT

Design Objectives

iC. Avoid r e fle c te d radia tio n .

ID. Avoid emitted radia tion .
3B. Prevent formation o f hot winds.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.
6B. Cool adjacent ground.

Suitable Plant Types

Grass.

Timing
T O U K E D - ISI - P L A C e
6 months.

Maintenance

Moderate to high. Requires frequent

watering and f e r t i l i z a t i o n .

qCASS PAVEMEWT
 -1 0 2 -

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

FLOOR: GRASS PAVEMENT ( c o n t i n u e d )

Design Strategies

1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by

adjacent ground and w alls.
102. Reduce amount of radiation
absorbed, stored and emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
3B1. Reduce surface temperatures in
prevailing wind directions.
6A1. Block incident radiation to
ground surface.
6B1. Trap a i r cooled by evapo-transpira­
tion next to ground surface.

Location

Ground surrounding building wherever

pavement is necessary ( e . g . , walkways,
patios, driveway, parking).

Advantages

- Can be used where extensive paving

with good bearing surface is necessary.
- Achieves rapid e f f e c t .
- Can be added around existing building.

Disadvantages

- More expensive than asphalt or poured

concrete.
- Requires moderate to high maintenance.
 -10 3-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

COURT: SHADE COURT/SUN POCKET

Design Objectives NUB&eey fabs^c roews

SUMMER AlONlM a

IA. Avoid d ire c t solar ra d ia tio n .

IB. Avoid in d ir e c t solar radiation EBMOVABUe
PtAM fS
(d iffu s e and scattered ra d ia tio n ,
back radiation from sky).
IC. Avoid re fle c te d ra d ia tio n .
ID. Avoid emitted radia tio n .
4A. Increase v e n tila tio n by cool
breezes.
5A. Increase evaporative surfaces.
6A. Reduce heat storage in adjacent
ground.
SeCTIOM 5HOU)(SlQ SUDISlCi P(_ANTBR--SOHM EE POStTlOM
Suitable Plant Types

Groundcovers, annuals and perennials.

mi
IN S U M M eE .
SU t^EE.
M O V E S TO
Timing FOEM
SHAPB
CCOBT
E ffe c tiv e immediately.

Maintenance

Very high, many small containers,

requires frequent watering and
fe rtiliz a tio n .
IM W lM T E te
SUDlNCt
V ^ A D E COUBT /N SDMKe.B.
P U X N reiE .
MOVES TO
SOSi FOac&T (N VOINTBIB

WAULfDSmON

PUAN•SWOLOfSJOPUAWTEB-SUMMEE' fOEITIOM
 ■104-

PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN APPLICATIONS

COURT: SHADE COURT/SUN POCKET

Design Objectives
lA l. Block incident radiation.
IB l. Block incident radiation from sky.
IC l. Block radiation reflected by adja­
cent ground and w alls.
1C2. Reduce radiation reflected by
surrounding ground and w alls.
ID l. Block radiation emitted by adja­
cent ground and w alls.
1D2. Reduce amount of radiation
absorbed, stored and emitted by
adjacent ground and w alls.
4A3. Permit penetration o f cool breezes, T-
IDW B R E E 2.e s
6A1. Block incident radiation to
ground surface.
soMMeie- SHADE oooex
Location
South, southwest side of building.

Advantages
- Adapts to seasonal use: provides
shade in summer, sun in winter.
- Can be moved aside to permit
v e n tila tio n at night. COLDWIMCJS

Di sadvantages
- R ela tiv ely expensive.
- Requires structural maintenance.

‘ouHPDCtcerr
 -105-

SELECTED PLANTS FOR

PASSIVE COOLING

A ll plants are not suited to a ll passive cooling Evergreen Shrubs: Berberis ju lia n a e . Il e x
roles or s itu a tio n s . The selection of a p a r tic u la r crenata, Ligustrum lucidum. Taxus cuspidata.
plant species w i l l depend upon the role i t must Thuja occidental is .
play in passive cooling. The timir\g preferred
fo r attainment o f e ffe c tiv e cooling, the intended — Vines: Campsis radicans, Celastrus scandens,
location on or around the b u ild in g , the level Clemantis paniculata, Euonymous fortunei
o f maintenance provided, and the av aila b le budget coloratus. Gel semium sempervirens, Hedera h e lix .
are a l l important facto rs. Hydrangea anomala p e t io la r is , Lonicera japonica
h a llia n a , Parthenocissus tric u s p id a ta , Pueraria
The l i s t o f plants assembled here is not com­ lobata. Wisteria floribunda.
prehensive. The plants selected represent a
range in terms of s iz e , function, maintenance — Groundcovers: Ajuga reptans, Cotoneaster
requirements, and cost. The l i s t is lim ite d to dammeri, Liriope muscari, Juniperus horizon­
plants of the ilastern United States which grow ta l i s , Pachysandra te rm in a lis , Rosa v;ichurai-
in a temperate climate and are e a s ily obtainable ana. Vinca minor.
in nurseries:
Each p lan t's c h a ra c te ris tic s , requirements,
— Large Deciduous Trees: Acer rubrum, Fraxinus and approximate cost are outlined in th is section.
pennsylvanica lanceolata, Liquidambar s ty r a c if lu a , Certain a ttrib u te s --fo rm , shade density, s iz e ,
Liriodendron t u l i p i f e r a , Platanus a c e r i f o l i a , seasonal le a fo u t and leafdrop--determihe a p la n t's
Populus nigra i t a l i c a , Quercus borealis (ru b ra ), effectiveness fo r cooling. Others
Quercus phellos, T i l i a cordata. a ffe c t the time required fo r a species to achieve
it s f u l l cooling a f f e c t and the necessary mainten­
— Large Evergreen Trees: Magnolia g ra n d iflo ra , ance. A p la n t's requirem en ts--ligh t, soil te x tu re ,
Pinus n igra, Pinus strobus, Tsuga canadensis. minimum soil depth, water, n u trie n ts , container
tolerance— determine suitable locations.
— Small Deciduous Trees: Acer palmatum, Cornus
f l o r i d a , Crataegus phaenopyrum (c o rd a ta ), Form: The form of a plant influences the shape
Lagerstromeia in d ic a , Mai us floribunda. and pattern of it s shadow and where i t can be
planted. For example, columnar trees cast a r e la ­
— Deciduous and Semi-Evergreen Shrubs: Abelia t iv e ly small, lin e a r shadow unless closely planted
g ra n d iflo ra , Euonymous a la tu s , Ligustrum o v a li- in rows. However, they can be planted close to
folium. Spiraea van h o u tte i. building walls and are useful in narrow spaces.
 -10 6-

Pyramidal trees cast a shadow which is broad near the stock cuttin g in 2V' pots planted 8-15" on center.
base of the tree and narrow a t i t s t i p . Many tree spe­
cies are pyramidal when young and spreading when mature. Size a t Maturity is an approximate eventual size
fo r plants which have good growing conditions.
Shade Density: Shade density determines how much Growth can be severely lim ite d or even stopped at
sunlight passes through the leaves. Plants with the o rig in a l planted size in poor conditions
l i g h t shade density usually have small leaves or a ( e . g . , compacted s o i l , waterlogged or droughty
coarse branching pattern which allow considerable s o ils , or when subjected to vandalism, root d is ­
sunlight to penetrate. Plants which cast dense turbance, damage from s a l t , o i l , or chemicals).
shade permit l i t t l e or no d ire c t sunlight w ithin the
shadow cast by the canopy. Seasonal Leafout and Leafdrop: Some deciduous
plant species l e a f out e a r l i e r and lose t h e ir
Growth Rate: Rate of growth is a function of leaves l a t e r than others. Timing also depends on
climate and growing conditions, as well as plant the region. Northern areas have e a rly winters and
type. The estimates here assume adequate l i g h t , la t e springs. Some plants which are evergreen in
moisture, s o i l , and nu trien ts. S im ila r plant warmer, southern regions become semi-evergreen or
types are compared for t h e ir r e la t iv e growth rates: deciduous at t h e i r northern l i m i t fo r hardiness.
very rapid, rapid, moderate, slow. D iffe re n t plant
t y p e s --tre e s , shrubs, vines groundcovers--grow at Light Requirements determine the amount of
d iffe r e n t rates. Six to eight fe e t per year is a sunlight needed fo r good growth. Plants w i ll
rapid growth rate fo r a tr e e , whereas a vine may often to le r a te wider extremes i f they are acclima­
grow 20 fe e t in one year. Rapidly-growing plants ted gradually. Plants requiring f u l l sun do not
can become maintenance problems when they outgrow to le r a te shading by buildings or other plants.
t h e ir location. They have a shorter life s p a n , are These plants th riv e in midday and afternoon sun­
often weak-wooded and more susceptable to insect l i g h t . Plants requiring p a r tia l shade can grow
problems. However, they provide shade much fa s te r where they are exposed to morning or la t e a f t e r ­
than plants which grow more slowly. Rapidly-grow­ noon sun or in the shade of plants with a medium
ing plants can be combined with plants o f a moder­ to l i g h t shade density. Shade-loving plants do
ate or slow growth rate to provide both short- and not t o le r a te midday sun.
long-term e f f e c t .
Soil Texture varies from coarse, sandy soils to
Size a t Five Years: The size estimate here fin e s i l t s and clays. A lightw eight soil mix
assumes good growing conditions and is based on consisting of 1/3 fin e sand and 2/3 fin e peat moss
the typical size fo r re sid e n tia l plantings. was developed by the U niversity of C a lifo r n ia .
Assume an i n i t i a l size of li^ -2 " c a lip e r (10-12' I t is ideal fo r use in containers.
high) fo r large trees, 4-6 ' high fo r small trees.
For shrubs, assume an i n i t i a l size o f 18-24". Minimum Soil Depth: Larger plants usually need
Assume th a t vines are 1-galIon container or 2-year- deeper soil than smaller p lan ts, fo r root support,
old root stock. For groundcovers, assume 1-year water, and n u trien ts. Trees which grow in
 •107-

rip a ria n or wet zones usually have fibrous root water they would require i f planted in the
systems and can to le r a te shallower s oils than trees ground. Drainage is also c r i t i c a l . A f l e x i b l e
with deep taproots. S ize, growth r a te , l i f e span, ADS d ra in lin e (4" in diameter) can be coupled to
and tolerance to insects and diseases w i l l be drains in large containers or on roofdecks and
reduced when plants are planted with minimum soil should be flushed out p e rio d ic a lly to prevent
depth. Plants in shallow soils also require more clogging. Soil should be uniform in texture
i r r i g a t i o n , more f e r t i l i z a t i o n and are more exposed throughout to accomplish good drainage. Eventually,
to w inter freezing and summer heat. most plants, even shrubs and large vines, w i l l become
"root bound" when l e f t in containers i n d e f in i t e l y .
Water is among the most c r i t i c a l o f environ-
mental facto rs. Some plants p re fe r moist condi- Maintenance required by d if f e r e n t plants varies
tio ns. These include trees and shrubs from g r e a tly , though most plants w i l l survive with
rip a ria n or wet zones which t o le r a te seasonal l i t t l e care once they become established a f t e r the
flooding or high water tables. Few plants prefer f i r s t two to three years. Only plants requiring
constantly high water le v e ls . Most plants o f the very low to medium maintenance are included in
Eastern United States require a moderate amount the following pages. Many plants survive well
o f water. Other plants w i l l to le r a te drought, but with l i t t l e maintenance, but respond b e tte r when
grow b e tte r when some water is a v a ila b le . given additional care. Plants grown in containers
need more care than the same plants in the ground.
N u trie n ts : Plants vary in the soil pH and
nutrients they require. Some plants w i l l to le r a te Cost: Estimated costs are based on the 1980
a range in soil pH; others prefer n e u tra l, s lig h t ly catalogues of four major nurseries in the Eastern
acid, or acid s o ils . United States. In s t a lla tio n cost assumes i n s t a l ­
la tio n by a large nurseryman or a landscape con­
Container Tolerance: Plants in containers t r a c to r . This would include the cost of the plant
(window boxes, p lan ters, roof decks) have lim ite d m a te ria l, s o i l , short-term maintenance, and a
l i f e span and require more intensive maintenance replacement guarantee.
than plants in the ground. Unless planted in very
large containers, trees ra re ly do well fo r more
than ten years. There are many shrubs, vines, and
groundcovers, which have a very good tolerance fo r
containers. Even these, however, may th riv e fo r
f iv e to ten years, then decline. The major con­
siderations are water and n u trie n t a v a i l a b i l i t y ,
drainage, and the amount o f space fo r roots. Soil
in containers dries out q u ickly, and plants in
containers therefore require frequent watering or
some form o f i r r i g a t i o n . Even in large containers,
plants may need two to three times the amount of
 -10 8-

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

ACER RUBRUM (RED MAPLE)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Young - conical Light: P a rtia l shade to f u l l sun

Mature - upright, ovoid

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 30-36"

18-24"/year

Size a t 5 Years: 20-25' Water: Moderate to moist

Size a t Maturity: Large - 60-80' height Nutrients: Tolerant— prefers acid soil
40-60' spread

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Good

4x6' min. diameter
10-15 year maximum
Seasonal Leafdrop: M id -fa ll Maintenance: Medium

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2" c a l. - $60 - Shallow, fibrous roots

5-6" c a l. - $300 - Specimens recover slowly when moved
In s ta lla t io n T o ta l: 2-3 X wholesale - Young whipstocks grow fa s te r in 10 years
than transplanted la rg e r BB stock
- Diseases and insects frequent
References: Hightshoe (1978) - Sensitive to salts and lig h tin g
Sunset (1979) - Intermediate s e n s it iv it y to p o llu tio n ,
Hudak (1980) drought, heat, and compacted soils
Robinson (1960) - Typical spacing: s tre e ts , 25-40' o . c . ;
c lu s te r in groves, 15-20' o .c.
 -1 0 9 -

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

FRAXINUS PENNSYLVANICA LANCEOLATA (GREEN ASH)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Irre g u la r,o v o id to oblong Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

Shade Density: Medium to li g h t Soil Texture: Coarse to medium

Growth Rate: Moderate to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 30 x 36"

24-30"/year when young

Size a t 5 Years: 25-30' Water: Drought-tolerant to moist

Size a t Maturity: 50-75' high Nutrients: S lig h tly acid to neutral

35-50' spread

Seasonal Leafout: Late spring Container Tolerance: Good fo r 10 years in

4 'x 6 ' container

Seasonal Leafdrop: Early f a l l Maintenance: Low to medium

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2" c a l . $70-75 BB - Typical spacing: 25-40' o.c.

4" c a l. $200-225 BB - Shallow roots 1 -3
In s t a lla t io n T o t a l: 2 .5 -3 X wholesale - "Marshall's" c u ltiv a r widely grown in
East and Midwest
- Tolerates urban situations well
References: Hightshoe (1978) - Insect problems with bores, scale, le a f
Robinson (1960) minors
- Frequent ice problems ( b r i t t l e )
 -1 1 0 -

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

LIQUIDAMBAR STYRACIFLUA (SWEETGUM)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Young - upright, conical Light: Full sun

Mature - ovoid In to le ra n t of dense shade

Shade Density: Medium to dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, Minimum Soil Depth: 24-30"

fa s te r when young

Size a t 5 Years: 25-30' Water: Moderate to moist; drought

to le ra n t once established

Size a t Maturity: Large, 75’ x50' Nutrients: S lig h t ly acid

high pH--iron chlorosis

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spri ng Container Tolerance: Good

10 year tolerance in
3 'x 5 ‘ container
Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l l Maintenance: Medium

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2" c a l. - $60-75 - Typical spacing: 25-40' o . c . ; c lu s te r

5-6" c a l. - $325-375 in groves, 10' o.c.
In s ta lla t io n T o ta l: 2 .5-3 X wholesale - Recovers slowly when moved a t large
sizes; smaller whipstocks often grow
fa s te r
References: Hightshoe (1978) - Late f a l l growth often fro s t damaged
Sunset (1979) - Resists disease and insects
Wyman (1977) - Sensitive to po llu tion
Robinson (1960)
 -1 1 1 -

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

LIRIODENDRON TULIPIFERA (TULIP TREE, TULIP POPLAR)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Young - upright conical Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

Mature - broadly pyramical

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Mod. fin e to medium

Growth Rate: Young - rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 36-40"

Mature - moderate

Size a t 5 Years: 25-30' Water: Moderate to moist

Size a t Maturity: 100-150' height Nutrients: Acid to neutral

50-75' spread

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Poor

Very short-term only

Seasonal Leafdrop: M id - f a l1 Maintenance: Medium

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2" c a l. - $70-80 BB - Typical spacing: 30-50' o . c . ,

4" c a l . - $225-250 BB dense clusters, 10-15' o.c.
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 .5 -3 X wholesale - D i f f i c u l t to transplant
- Problems with aphids and scale
- Most prized outside typical growth
References: Hudak (1980) range
6
Hightshoe (1978)
Robinson (1960)
 -1 1 2 -

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

PLATANUS ACERIFOLIA

C haracteristics:
(LONDON PLANETREE)

Requirements:
I
Form: Young - pyramidal Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade
Mature - globular

Shade Density: Medium to dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 36-42"

24-30"/year

Size a t 5 Years: 30-35' Water: Drought-tolerant to moist

Size a t Maturity: 100' X 75' Nutrients: Neutral to acid

Low n u trie n t requirements

Seasonal Leafout: Late spring Container Tolerance: F a ir/v e ry large only

10-15 years
4x6' min. container
Seasonal Leafdrop: m id-late f a l l Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2" c a l. $60-70 BB - Typical spacing: 25-40' o.c.

4" c a l. $185-200 BB - C u ltiv a r - "Bloodqood" lim ited a v a ila b i­
6" c a l. $300-325 BB l i t y , but with anthracnose resistance
In s t a lla t io n T o t a l: 2 .5-3 X wholesale - A l t . - Platanus occidental is (zone 4)

References: Hightshoe (1978)

- Among most widely planted trees in
downtowns around country.
I
Robinson (1960) - Can be pollarded to l i m i t size .
Hudak (1980)
 - 113
-

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

POPULUS NIGRA ITALICA (LOMBARDY POPLAR)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Upright, columnar Light: Full sun or p a rtia l shade

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to medium

Growth Rate: Very rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 30-36" depth

Size a t 5 Years: 30-40' Water: Moist preferred, but w ill

to le r a te moderate

Size at Maturity: 60-80' high x 10-15' Nutrients: Neutral to acid

wide Wide tolerance

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Short-term only

Seasonal Leafdrop: M id -fa ll Maintenance: High

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2" c a l. BB $60-70 - Typical spacing: 10-15' o.c.

4" c a l. BB $135-140 - Very short lifespan, ideal interim plant
In s t a lla t io n T o t a l: 2.5 X wholesale - Leaf l i t t e r , breakage, and cankers are
typical
- Insect problems
References: Hudak (1980) - Good urban tolerance
Robinson (1960) - Very d is tin c tiv e form
Sunset (1979)
 -11 4-

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

QUERCUS BOREALIS (RUBRA) (RED OAK)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Young - upright Light: Shade to f u l l sun

Mature - ovoid, globular Very to le ra n t

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Moderately coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 30-36"

1 8 -247year

Size a t 5 Years: 20-30' Water: Moderate to moist

Prefers good drainage

Size at Maturity: 75-100' high Nutrients: Acid preferred

75-100' wide

Seasonal Leafout: Late spring Container Tolerance: Poor/large 4x6' con­

ta in e r fo r 10 years

Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l l Maintenance: Medium

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2" cal. $70-80 BB - Typical spacing: 30-50' o.c.

4" c a l. $200-225 BB - Rapid growth fo r an oak
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 .5 -3 X wholesale - Disease and insect problems
- Sensitive to compacted soils

References: Hightshoe (1978)

Robinson (1960)
 -1 1 5 -

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

QUERCUS PHELLOS (WILLOW OAK)

C haracteristics; Requirements:

Form: Young - conical Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

Mature - round topped

Shade Density: Light to medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Moderate to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 30-36" min.

18-36'7year

Size a t 5 Years: 20-25' Water: Very moist to moderate

Tolerates poor drainage

Size a t Maturity: 45-50' high Nutrients: Prefers acid

30-40' spread

Seasonal Leafout: la t e spring Container Tolerance: Low; large,

short-term only

Seasonal Leafdrop: la t e f a l l (semi- Maintenance: Low

evergreen in South)

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2 - 2 V c a l. - $115-130 - Typical spacing: 20-25' o.c.

5-6" c a l. - $415-475 - Widely planted in South
In s t a ll a t io n T o ta l: 2 .5 -3 X wholesale - Good s tre e t tr e e , prefers large planter
space
- Tolerates seashore areas
References: Hudak (1980)
Wyman (1974)
Robinson (1960)
 -1 1 6 -

TREE: LARGE DECIDUOUS

TILIA CORDATA (LITTLE LEAF LINDEN)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Upright, pyramidal Light: Sun to p a r tia l shade

Shade Density: Very dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fine

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 30-36"

( fa s t when young)

Size a t 5 Years: 20-30' Water: Moist to moderate

Size a t Maturity: 60-80' height Nutrients: Tolerant

30-40' spread

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Good

10-15 years

Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l l Maintenance: Low to medium

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 10-12' BB - $45-50 - Typical spacing: 20-30' o.c.

2" c a l. BB - $85-90 - Aphids, honeydew, mold, scale
4" c a l. BB - $200-225 - Good po llu tio n tolerance
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 .5 -3 .0 X wholesale - C u lt. "Greenspire" - uniform pyramidal
growth, many other c u ltiv a rs a v ailable
References: Wyman (1974) - Widely planted in downtowns
Hudak (1980) - Available in large sizes
Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960)
 •117-

TREE: LARGE EVERGREEN

MAGNOLIA GRANDIFLORA (SOUTHERN MAGNOLIA)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Rounded to pyramidal Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

Shade Density: Very dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fine

Prefers good drainage

Growth Rate: Moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 30-36" i

Size a t 5 Years: 25-30' Water: Moist to moderate

Size a t Maturity: Large, 75x75' Nutrients: Neutral to s lig h t ly acid

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Short-term only

Very large

Seasonal Leafdrop: -- Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 5-6' BB $45-50 - Typical spacing: 25-50' o.c.

11-12' BB $180-200 - Dense surface roots
In s t a ll a t io n T o ta l: A lt . - Magnolia virginiana
2 .5-3 X wholesale

References:
Hudak (1980)
Sunset (1979)
 -11 8-

TREE: LARGE EVERGREEN

PINUS NIGRA (AUSTRIAN PINE, AUSTRIAN BLACK PINE)

Characteristics: Requi rements:

Form: Stout pyramidal Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

F la t topped when older

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Moderate to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 30-36"

Size a t 5 Years: 15-25' Water: Moderate to drought-tolerant

when established

Size a t Maturity: 60-100' Nutrients: Neutral to acid, prefers

30-50' spread acid

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Low, short-term

only 6x4' min. cont.

Seasonal Leafdrop: - -
Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 18-24"BB/cont - $8-10 - Typical spacing: 15-25' o.c.

7-8' BB - $90-100 - Can be used as hedge, windscreen, or
In s t a lla tio n T o ta l: 2.5 X wholesale fo re s t mass
- Tolerates high p o llu tio n , seacoast
and windy locations
References:
Wyman (1974)
Hudak (1980)
Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960)
 -119-

I TREE: LARGE EVERGREEN

PINUS STROBUS (WHITE PINE)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Upright, irregular,branching Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

in horizontal t ie r s

Shade Density: Very dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

No undergrowth Well drained

Growth Rate: Moderate--1 8-24"/year Minimum Soil Depth: 30-36" fo r 10 years

Rapid when young

Size a t 5 Years: 25-35' Water: Moderate to moist

Size a t M aturity: Large, 75' high x Nutrients: Neutral to acid, prefers

50' wide acid

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Fair

Large containers
only ( 4 'x 6 ')
Seasonal Leafdrop:

Cost:
Maintenance:

Notes:
Low
rr irn
Nursery Wholesale: 7-8'BB - $25-30 - Typical spacing: 20-25' o.c. in groves
16-18'BB - $175-200 - Frequent insect and disease problems
In s t a lla t io n Total: 2 -2.5 x wholesale - Sensitive to urban p o llu tio n , s a lt ,
drought, heat and compacted soils
- Used as dense fa s t hedge or closed
References: canopy forest
Hightshoe (1978) - L i t t l e understory growth under forest
Robinson (1960) stands
 - 120
-

TREE: LARGE EVERGREEN I

TSUGA CANADENSIS (HEMLOCK)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Broadly conical Light: f^ull sun to dense shade

Shade Density: Very dense Soil Texture: Medium to coarse

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 24-30" fo r 20'height

6-18"/year

Size a t 5 Years: 20-25' Water: Moderate to moist, tolera te s

poor drainage

Size a t Maturity: 75'high x 35'wide Nutrients: Prefers acid

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Good, i f kept in

clipped balance with
container soils
Seasonal Leafdrop: Maintenance: Low av aila b le

Cost: Notes: I
Nursery Wholesale: Hedge 18-24" BB - $6
- Typical spacing: hedge 6' o.c.
7-8' BB - $50-60
stand 10-15' o.c.
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale - Shears well to form hedge
- Few disease problems
- Sensitive to li g h t i n g , s a lt s , drought,
References: heat and compacted soils
Hightshoe (1978)
Robinson (1960)
 -1 2 1 -

TREE: SMALL DECIDUOUS

ACER PALMATUM (JAPANESE MAPLE)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Broad canopy Light: Full sun to deep shade

Shade Density: Light to medium Soil Texture: Coarse to medium

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 18-24"

Size a t 5 Years: 10-15' Water: Moist to moderate

Size a t Maturity: 20-25' Nutrients: Prefers acid

Seasonal Leafout: Early to mid-spring Container Tolerance: Very good, long-term

4x3' container

Seasonal Leafdrop: M id -fa ll Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 5 g a l. cont. $15-20 - Good fo r smaller s tre e t tree

15' BB spread $250-300 - Often kept clipped at smaller sizes fo r
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2.5 X wholesale long-term
- Foliage very lig h t and a iry

References: Cultivars - many smaller red-leafed forms

Hudak (1980) - leaves vary, fin e ly cut to
Sunset (1979) typical size
Wyman (1974)
 -1 2 2 -

TREE: SMALL DECIDUOUS

CORNUS FLORIDA (DOGWOOD)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Globular Light: Full sun to dense shade

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 15-18"

12-18"/year

Size a t 5 Years: 12-18' Water: Moist to moderate

W ill to le r a te some dryness

Size a t Maturity: 35x25' Nutrients: S lig h t ly acid pH preferred

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Very good; long-term

in 3'x 4' containers

Seasonal Leafdrop: M id -fa ll Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 3-4' $11-12 BB - Typical spacing: 8-10 o . c . , c lu s te r

10-12' $90-100 BB - Few insect and disease problems
In s t a lla tio n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale - Sensitive to drought, li g h t i n g , and
compacted soils
- C ultivars fo r form and flower color
References:
Hightshoe (1978)
Robinson (1960)
 -1 2 3 -

TREE: SMALL DECIDUOUS

CRATAEGUS PHAENOPYRUM (CORDATA) (WASHINGTON HAWTHORN)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Ovoid/globular Light: Full sun

Multi-stem Does not to le ra te shade

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Fast when young, then Minimum Soil Depth: 18-24"
slow a f t e r - 6-1 Z'Vyf'

Size a t 5 Years: 15-20' Water: Prefers moist, w i l l

to le r a te drought

Size a t Maturity: Small - 25' x 20' Nutrients: Acid to a lkalin e

Seasonal Leafout: Late spring Container Tolerance: Very good, long-term

in 3'x4' containers

Seasonal Leafdrop:

Cost:
Late f a l l

4-12' BB av aila b le
Maintenance:

Notes:
Medium to high

□
Nursery Wholesale: 5-6' BB $18-20 - Typical spacing: 15-20' o.c. or clumps
10-12' BB $70-75 - Commonly used
I n s t a ll a t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale - Very thorny branches, widely planted as
b a r r ie r
- Red berries through winter
References: Hightshoe (1978) - Frequent disease, f i r e b l i g h t , rust and
Robinson (1960) insect problems
- Sensitive to s a lt
 -1 2 4 -

TREE: SMALL DECIDOUS

LAGERSTROMEIA INDICA (CRAPE MYRTLE)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Multi-stem, spreading Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

Shade Density: Light to medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Rapid - 18-24"/year Minimum Soil^Depth: 24-30"

Size a t 5 Years: 12-18' Water: Drought resista n t

Size a t Maturity: Varies, 10-25' Nutrients: S lig h t ly acid to neutral

Seasonal Leafout: Spring Container Tolerance: Good, long-term in

3 'x 4 ' container

Seasonal Leafdrop: Fall Maintenance: Medium

Cost: 18-24 " cont. $6-10 Notes:

4-5 ' BB $17-20
- Typical spacing: 10-15 f t . o.c.
Nursery Wholesale: 8-10' BB $70-80
- Hardy north to Baltimore, very common
12-14' BB $120-130
in south
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2.5 X wholesale
- Long period o f summer blooming
C ultivars - fo r flower colors and size
References:
Sunset (1979)
 -1 2 5 -

TREE: SMALL DECIDUOUS

MALUS FLORIBUNDA (JAPANESE FLOWERING CRABAPPLE)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Broad, round-topped, Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

shrubby tree

Shade Density: Medium to li g h t Soil Texture: Coarse to fine

Growth Rate: Moderate to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 24-30" min.

Size a t 5 Years: 10-15' Water: Moist to moderate

Size a t Maturity: 20-30' X 20-30' Nutrients: T o lerant, prefers neutral

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Very good, long-term

in 4x3' container

Seasonal Leafdrop: M id -fa ll Maintenance: Low to medium, varies

with location

Cost: Notes:
BB 8-10' $14-17
Nursery Wholesale: BB 8-10' $40-50 - Typical spacing: 12-15' o.c.
BB 3 -4 "c a l. $100-150 - Spring bloom outstanding
In s t a ll a t io n T o ta l: 2.5 X wholesale - Small yellow winter apples 4-

A lt . - two hundred crabapples to choose

References: among r
Wyman (1974)
Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960)
Hudak (1980)
 -1 2 6 -

SHRUB: DECIDUOUS AND SEMI-EVERGREEN

ABELIA GRANDIFLORA (GLOSSY ABELIA)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Rounded with arching Light: Full sun to p a r t ia l shade

base

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 12-15" min.

18-24" ideal

Size a t 5 Years: 8-10' Water: Drought-tolerant to moist

Size a t Maturity: 8-10' Nutrients: Tolerant

Seasonal Leafout: Loses leaves below Container Tolerance: Good, to lera te s

10-15° F small containers

Seasonal Leafdrop: Semi-evergreen Maintenance: Low

elsewhere

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale; 2-3' BB $4.50 - Typical spacing: 4 -5 ' o .c.

2-gal. cont. $5-6 - C lip to maintain dense form, fa s t new
In s ta lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale growth
- Blooms a ll summer

References:
Wyman (1977)
Sunset (1979)

I
 -1 2 7 -

SHRUB: DECIDUOUS AND SEMI-EVERGREEN

EUONYMOUS ALATUS (WINGED EUONYMOUS, BURNING BUSH)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: F la t topped, Light: Sun to p a rtia l shade

rectangular

Shade Density: Medium to dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Slow to medium Minimum Soil Depth: 12-18"

Size a t 5 Years: 4-6' Water: Moist to drought-tolerant

Size a t Maturity: 8-12' Nutrients: Neutral to acid

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Good, "Compacta"

b e tte r for long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l l Maintenance: Low, thrives with neglect

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 12-15"BB/cont $6.50-7 - Typical spacing: 4-6' o.c.

24-30''BB $11-12 - Winter branches winged and block more
In s t a lla t io n Total: 2 X wholesale sunlight
- Bright red f a l l color

References: Wyman (1977) A lt . - Euonymus alatus "Compacta" 4-6'

Sunset (1979) ta l 1
Robinson (1960)
 -12 8-

SHRUB: DECIDUOUS AND SEMI-EVERGREEN

LIGUSTRUM OVALIFOLIUM (CALIFORNIA PRIVET)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Upright to rounded Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Very rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 12-15"

Size a t 5 Years: 12-15' Water: Drought to le ra n t to moist

Size a t Maturity: 12-15' Nutrients: Low demands

Seasonal Leafout: Early spring Container Tolerance: Very good

Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l 1; mi Id Maintenance: Low

winters, evergreen

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 12-18" BR $ .65-1.00 - Typical spacing: 12-15" o.c. fo r hedges

4-5' BR $2.50-3.50 - Widely planted, among most popular
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale p r iv e t hedges
- Inexpensive hedge
- Tolerates heavy pruning
References: Wyman (1977)
Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960)
 -1 2 9 -

SHRUB: DECIDUOUS AND SEMI-EVERGREEN

SPIRAEA VAN HOUTTEI (VAN HOUTEI SPIREA)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Arching vase shape to Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

broad mound

Shade Density: Light to medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Rapid, 12-24"/year Minimum Soil Depth: 12-15"

Size a t 5 Years: 6-8' Water: Moist to drought-tolerant

Size a t Maturity: 6-8' height Nutrients: Tolerant

6' spread

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Good, long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: M id -f a l1 Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 18-24" BR $2.40-2.90

2-3' BB $6-7 - Typical spacing: 3-4' o.c. for hedge
In s t a ll a t io n T o t a l: - Large rounded hedge
2 X wholesale

References: Wyman (1977)

Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960)
 -1 3 0 -

SHRUB: EVERGREEN

BERBERIS JULIANAE (WINTERGREEN BARBERRY)

C haracteristics; Requirements:

Form: Dense upright Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

/
Shade Density: Very dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 12-15"

Size at 5 Years: 4-5' Water: Moist to drought-tolerant

Size at Maturity: 5-6' Nutrients: No special needs

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Good

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:
12-15" BB or cont.
Nursery Wholesale: $6.50-7.50 - Typical spacing: 4 -5 ' o.c.
24-20" BB $14-16 - Very dense and thorny, formidable
In s t a lla tio n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale b a r r ie r hedge
- Very to le ra n t o f abuse and d i f f i c u l t
conditions
References: Wyman (1977)
Sunset (1979)
 -13 1-

SHRUB: EVERGREEN

ILEX CRENATA (JAPANESE HOLLY)

C haracteristics: Requirements

Form: Upright to rounded Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

Shade Density: Medium to dense Soil Texture: Coarse to medium

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 12-15"

Size a t 5 Years: 3-4' Water: Moist to moderate

Size a t Maturity: 4-5 ' Nutrients: S Iig h tly acid

Some v a rie tie s to 20'

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good

Long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:
12-15" c o n t.$ 5 .5 0 -6 .5C
Nursery Wholesale: 18-24" cont/BB $8-12 - Typical spacing: 24-30" o.c. (hedge)
30-36" $16-18 - Ideal fo r hedges, s im ilar to boxwood
In s t a ll a t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale

References:
Wyman (1977)
Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960)
 -1 3 2 -

SHRUB: EVERGREEN

LIGUSTRUM LUCIDUM (WAX LEAF PRIVIT, GLOSSY PRIVIT)

Characteristics; Requirements:

Form: Spreading to upright Light: Full sun to shade

Shade Density: Very dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Very rapid Minimum Soil Depth: ,15-24"

Size a t 5 Years: 10-15' Water: Moist to drought-tolerant

when established

Size a t Maturity: 20-30' Nutrients: Tolerant

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Good

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes;

Nursery Wholesale: 15-18"BB/cont.$6-7.50 - Typical spacing: 3-4' o .c. fo r hedge

30-36"BB $10-12 8-10' o.c./screen
In s t a lla t io n Total ; 2 X wholesale - Glossy f o lia g e , c lip s w e ll , widely
planted

References:
Wyman (1977) ( p 'l
Sunset (1979) 4
 -1 3 3 -

SHRUB; EVERGREEN

TAXUS CUSPIDATA (JAPANESE YEW)

C haracteristics: Requi rements:

Form: Spreading to upright Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

c u ltiv a rs Burns with refle cte d heat

Shade Density: Very dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Slow Minimum Soil Depth: 12-24"

6-12"/year

Size a t 5 Years: 5-10' Water: Moderate to moist

Size a t Maturity: Very large; c u ltiv a rs Nutrients: Prefers neutral soils

vary 10-50' in height

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Good fo r small

c u lti vars

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 12-15"BB - $10-12 - Typical spacing: 3-4' o.c. (hedge);

18-24"BB - $12-20 10-12 o.c. (specimens)
In s t a lla t io n T o t a l: 2 X wholesale - Clips well fo r hedges, buffers, screens
- More shade and moisture to lera n t than
other conifers.
References:
Wyman (1977) C ultivars - large number of forms
Sunset (1979) available
Robinson (1960)
 -13 4-

SHRUB: EVERGREEN

THUJA OCCIDENTALIS (ARBORVITAE)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Upright, symmetrical Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to medium

Growth Rate: Moderate to slow Minimum Soil Depth: 18-24"

Size a t b Years: 6-8' Water: Moderate to moist

Size a t Maturity: Upright: 25-40' Nutrients: Prefers rich soil

Spreading: 4-5'

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Good i f moist

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 18-24"BB - $7.50-9.00 - Typical spacing: spreading 3-4' o . c . ;

4-5'BB - $22-25 upright 6' o.c.
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale - Can be sheared to form solid hedge

C ultivars - many fo r d if f e r e n t shapes:

References: "Fastigiata" - columar, t a l l
Wyman (1977) "Globosa" - rounded, small
Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960)
 -135-

VINE

CAMPSIS RADICANS (BIGNONIA RADICANS) (TRUMPET VINE)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Climbing Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to medium, well

drained

Growth Rate: Moderate to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 12-15"

IQ '/y e a r

Size a t 5 Years: 25-25' Water: Moderate

Size a t Maturity: 30-40'+ Nutrients:

Seasonal Leafout: la t e spring Container Tolerance: Good

3-4 years in 12-15"
containers
Seasonal Leafdrop: mid to la te f a l l Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2 y r . 6 " cans - $4-5 - Typical spacing: 10-15' o.c. on walls
- Top-heavy when older, requires thinning
In s t a lla t io n Total: 2 X wholesale to lighten top
- Few insect pests
- Rootlike holdfasts and twining stems
References: Wyman (1977) - Often require extra support because of
Sunset (1979) added weight
Perkins (1964)
Robinson (1960) A lt . - Campsis grandiflora (Zone 7)
(Chinese Trumpet Vine)
 -1 3 6 -

VINE

CELASTRUS SCANDENS (AMERICAN BITTERSWEET)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Twining vine Light: Full sun to shade

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

I
Growth Rate: Moderate to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 12-18"
1 0 '/y e a r

Size at 5 Years: 15-20' Water: T o lerant, moist to dry

Size a t Maturity: 25-35' Nutrients: Tolerant-^prefers neutral

Needs a lo t of room

Seasonal Leafout: Mid-spring Container Tolerance: Good

Seasonal Leafdrop: M id -f a l1 Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 18-24" 1 y r . $2-2.50 - Typical spacing: 5-10' o.c.

2-3' 2 y r . $2.50-3.50 - Easy to grow, few pests, dense and l- 'b
In s ta lla t io n Total: 2 X wholesale sprawling, intertw ining
- Support: t r e l l i s , fences, or low w a lls ,
etc.
References: Wyman (1977) - Vigorous--can choke out adjacent shrubs
Perkins (1964) (4) - Orange f r u i t s in f a l l
Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960) A lt . - Celastrus orbiculatus
(O riental Bittersw eet)
 -1 3 7 -

VINE

CLEMANTIS PANICULATA (DIOSCOREIFOLIA) (SWEET AUTUMN CLEMANTIS)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Twining stems Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse/mulch surface

Growth Rate: Moderate to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 12-18"

up to 15'/y e a r

Size a t 5 Years: 15-20' Water: Prefers moderate to moist

Size a t Maturity: 30' Nutrients: Neutral to acid

Seasonal Leafout: mid-spring Container Tolerance: Good, long-term 1

Seasonal Leafdrop: mid to la t e f a l l Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:
2 y r . 3" pots $2.50-3
Nursery Wholesale: 2-3' cont. $6-7 - Typical spacing: 5-10'
3-4' cont. $7-8 - Few disease or insect problems
In s t a lla t io n Total: 2 X wholesale - Among easiest clemantis to grow
- Prune yearly
- Support: t e n d r i l - l i k e le a f stems.
References: Perkins (1964) (4) t r e l l i s support.
Wyman (1977) - B r it t le /t e n d e r when young
Sunset (1979) - Tolerant of seaside environment
Robinson (1960) A lt . - Clemantis armandii (Evergreen)
Clemantis montana
 -1 3 8 -

VINE

EUONYMOUS fortune: coloratus ( purple leaf WINTERCREEPER)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Groundcover or Light: Full sun to dense shade

clinging vine

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 4-6"

Size a t 5 Years: I n f i l l s solid w ithin Water: Drought-tolerant to moist

one year; 10-15' on
w alls; mounds 18"
Size a t Maturity: Nutrients: Low requirements

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good

Seasonal Leafdrop: -- Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2V 2^" pots - $.40- - Typical spacing: 12-18" o.c. from 2"
9-12" runners - $.50 pots; 3' o .c. a t base of wall
1 - g a l. cont. - $3.00 - Support: climbs by r o o t l e t holdfasts,
t r a i l s over walls and banks
In s t a lla t io n T o t a l: 2 X wholesale
- Few insect pests
References: Wyman (1977) - Good fo r erosion control
Sunset (1979) - Dense cover chokes out weeds
- Should be clipped back a t edges
 -139-

VINE

GELSEMIUM SEMPERVIRENS (CAROLINA YELLOW JESSAMINE)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Twining vine Light: Full sun to shade

Shade Density: L ight, d e lic ate Soil Texture: Coarse to medium

Growth Rate: Moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 12-15"

Size at 5 Years: 15-20' Water: Drought-tolerant to moderate

Size a t Maturity: 20-25' Nutrients: Acid preferred

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good, long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: -- Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

1 g a l. cont. - $4 - Typical spacing: 4 -5 ' o.c.

Nursery Wholesale:
2-3' cont. - $6-7 - Few pests
3-4' cont. - $7-8 - Support: twining stems, good t r e l l i s
or bank cover
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale - Spring yellow fragrant flowers
- A ll parts poisonous
References: Sunset (1979) - Light movement in wind
Perkins (1964) 7
 -1 4 0 -

VINE

HEDERA HELIX (ENGLISH IVY)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Climbing or spreading Light: Full sun to dense shade

clinging woody vine

Shade Density: Very dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 6-10"

4 - 8 '/y e a r

Size a t 5 Years: I n f i l l within one year Water: Drought-tolerant to moist

10-15' on walls

Size a t Maturity: 60-90' Nutrients: Neutral to acid

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good

Seasonal Leafdrop: Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: pots - 35-50^ - Typical spacing: vine 18" o.c.

1 g a l. cont. - $3.00 groundcover 1 2 " o.c.
In s t a lla t io n Total: 2 x wholesale - Support: a e ria l ro o tle ts on stems, stem
roots in groundcovers
- Yearly shearing to control growth
References: Wyman (1977) - W ill smother adjacent plants
Perkins (1964) Zone 6 - Widely used as clim ber, groundcover or
Sunset (1979) hanging
Robinson (1960) C u lti vars - "Baltica" - smaller l e a f and
hardier to cold
 -1 4 1 -

VINE

HYDRANGEA ANOMALA PETIOLARIS (CLIMBING HYDRANGEA)

C h a ra c te ris tic s : Requirements:

Form: Spreading, climbing Light: P a rtia l shade to f u l l shade

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to medium, good

drai nage

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, 12-18"/ Minimum Soil Depth: 12-18"

year; slow i n i t i a l , fa s te r
when established
Size a t 5 Years: 15-20' on wall Water: Moderate to moist

Size a t Maturity: 4-5 story building Nutrients: Prefers acid

(up to 5 0-60')

Seasonal Leafout: Late spring Container Tolerance: Very good, long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l l Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:
1
- Typical spacing: 5' o .c. a t base of
Nursery Wholesale: 15-18"/6" c o n t.-$5-7
wal 1
2 - 3 '/ 8 " c o n t.-$8-10
- Clings to masonry walls
I n s t a ll a t io n Total: 2 x wholesale 4
- Small ro o tlik e holdfasts, some supple­
mental support when young
- Among best of clinging vines
R e fe re n c e s : Wyman (1977)
Sunset (1979)
Perkins (1964) zone 5
Robinson (1960)
 -1 4 2 -

VINE

LONICERA JAPONICA HALLIANA (HALLS HONEYSUCKLE)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Twining vine Light: Sun or shade

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Very rapid, 18-20' / y r Minimum Soil Depth: 6-12"

Slow to s ta r t

Size a t 5 Years: 20-25' Water: Drought-tolerant to moist

Size at Maturity: 35' Nutrients: Wide range

Seasonal Leafout: Early spring Container Tolerance: Very good

Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l l ; evergreen Maintenance: Low

in warm climate

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 1 y r 2V' pots - 40-60(t - Typical spacing: w a ll, 3-4 ' o .c .;
groundcover, 2-3' o .c.
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale - Support: twining stems, t r e l l i s support
- Used fo r bank/erosion control
- Stems touching ground take root
References: Sunset (1979) - Vigorous, can smother adjacent plants
Wyman (1977) - Few pests
Perkins (1964) - Buildup of dead leaves
Robinson (1960) - Cut back y e a rly to prevent buildup
 -143-

VINE

PARTHENOCISSUS TRICUSPIDATA (BOSTON IVY)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Clinging vine Light: Full sun to deep shade

Shade Density: Medium to dense ■ Soil Texture: Coarse to fine

Growth Rate: Rapid 5-10 SF/year Minimum Soil Depth: Tolerates 6 - 8 "
once established Prefers 12-18"

Size a t 5 Years: Cover 1-2 story Water: Moist (drought-tolerant once

building established)

Size a t Maturity: Cover 4-5 stories Nutrients: Not demanding

Seasonal Leafout: Late spring Container Tolerance: Good, long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l l Maintenance: Low

I ■
“ S'

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 1 y r 2 V - $ .8 0 -1.2 5 - Typical spacing: 3-4' o.c. base of wall

2 y r 2 V - $1.00-1.50 - Yearly pruning away from windows
2 y r 3" - $ 1.75-2.25 - Aerial roo tlets grip walls (brick or
masonry w a lls , not t r e l 1 is, stucco or
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale shingles)
References: Wyman (1977) - Branches in winter cover 25-30% of wall
Sunset (1979)
Robinson (1960) A l t . - Parthenocissus quinquefolia
(V irg in ia Creeper)
 -1 4 4 -

VINE

PUERARIA LOBATA (THUNBERGIANA) (KUDZU VINE)

C h a ra c te ris tic s : Requirements:

Form: Twining vine Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

Shade Density: Very dense when Soil Texture: Coarse to f i n e , well drained
established

Growth Rate: Extremely rapid, 50' Minimum Soil Depth: 18-24" fo r 2-3 years
growth per year

Size a t 5 Years: Very large Water: Moist to drought-tolerant

Size a t Maturity: 50-60' Nutrients: Tolerant

Seasonal Leafout: Late spring (ever­ Container Tolerance: Short-term, 2-3

green in warm climate) years in 24"
container
Seasonal Leafdrop: Early f a l l Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: Not re ad ily av aila b le - Spreads by underground runners

Rooted cuttings grow - Out o f control i t w i l l cover houses,
rapidly pine tre e s , and telephone poles
In s ta lla t io n T o ta l: - - - Support: loosely twining
- Rampant throughout south, can e a sily
R e fe r e n c e s : Wyman (1977) get out of hand
Perkins (1964) - Fastest vine in warmer climates
Robinson (1970) - This must be used with caution, not
recommended in many locations
 - 145
-

vine

WISTERIA FLORIBUNDA (JAPANESE WISTERIA)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Twining vine Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to medium, good

drainage

Growth Rate: Slow to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 12-15"

Size a t 5 Years: 15-25' Water: Moist to drought-tolerant

Size a t Maturity: 30-40' covers 4-5 Nutrients: Prefers acid to neutral

story building Add iron in a lk a lin e soils

Seasonal Leafout: Early spring Container Tolerance: Good, long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: Late f a l l Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2-3' cont $6-7 - Typical spacing: 5-10' o.c.

3-4' cont. $7.50-8.50 - Support: twining vine--heavy tie s or
In s t a lla t io n T o t a l: 4 y r heavy 8"-$12-13 frame to twine around
- Thin out yearly fo r desired form
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale
References: Wyman (1977)
Perkins (1964)
- Few pests
- Outstanding flowers
- May e ith e r be grown as vines, shrubs,
^uniT
Sunset (1979) or trees
Robinson (1960) A lt . - Wisteria sinensis (7-13 le a f le t s )
 -1 4 6 -

GROUNDCOVER

AJUGA REPTANS (BRONZE AJUGA, CARPET BUGLE)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: P r o s tr a te -- 6 - 8 " high Light: Full sun to p a r tia l shade

Shade Density: Dense cover Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 6- 8 "

Size a t 5 Years: I n f i l l within one Water: Moderate to moist

year

Size a t Maturity: 4 -6", solid cover Nutrients: Wide tolerance

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good

Long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Low &

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2V pots, 40(i: each - Typical spacing: 8-12" o.c. fo r i n f i l l 1

in one year
In s t a lla t io n Total: 2 X wholesale - Widely grown

References: Sunset (1979)

 -1 4 7 -

GROUNDCOVER

COTONEASTER DAMMERI (C. HUMIFUSUS) (BEARBERRY COTONEASTER)

C haracteristics: Requi rements:

Form: Prostrate to 12" Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

height, t r a i l i n g

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Rapid, 12-18"/year Minimum Soil Depth: 8-12"

Size a t 5 Years: I n f i l l w ithin 3 years Water: Moist (drought-tolerant

when established)

Size a t Maturity: Mounds to 12-15" Nutrients: Tolerates poor soils

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good, long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 1 gal. cont. $2-3 - Typical spacing: 18 to 30" o.c.

- Branches root
In s t a lla t io n T o t a l: 2 X wholesale - Good fo r erosion control
- T r a ils 8-10' over walls
- Fire b lig h t occasional
References: Wyman (1977) - Trim back a t edges
Sunset (1979) A l t . - Cotoneaster lowfast
C. horizontal is
C. skogsholmen
C. microphylla
 -1 4 8 -

GROUNDCOVER

LIRIOPE MUSCARI (BIG BLUE LILY TURF)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: Clumping Light: Light to dense shade

12-18" high

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to medium

Growth Rate: Rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 4-6" depth

Size at 5 Years: I n f i l l in 12-18 months Water: Moist to moderate

Size a t Maturity: Solid cover Nutrients: Acid to neutral

12-18" clumps

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 1 gal. cont. $3-3.75 - Typical spacing: 12-18" o.c.

- Cut back brown tip s
In s ta lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale - Grass-like leaves
A l t . - Ophiopogonum (Mondo Grass)
References: Sunset (1977)
 -1 4 9 -

GROUNDCOVER

JUNIPERUS HORIZONTALIS (JUNIPER)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Prostrate Light: Full sun to p a rtia l shade

6-18" high

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 12-18"

Size a t 5 Years: I n f i l l w ithin 3-5 yrs Water: Moderate to drought-tolerant

Size a t M aturity: 6-18" solid cover Nutrients: Acid to a lk a lin e

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good, long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: Maintenance: Very low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: l gal. cont. $3-4 - Typical spacing: 4-5' o.c.

5 g a l. cont. $12-15 - Minor spray/insect problems
In s t a lla t io n Total: 2 x wholesale
Alt.. - Juniperus sabina ta m a ris c ifo lia
J. conferta - Zone 5
R e feren ces : Wyman (1977)
Sunset (1979) C ultivars - "Bar Harbor"
"Andorra"
 -15 0-

GROUNDCOVER

PACHYSANDRA TERMINALIS (PACHYSANDRA or JAPANESE SPURGE)

C h a ra c te ris tic s : Requirements:

Form: Spreadi n Light: Full sun to dense shade

6-9" hig

Shade Density: Dense Soil Texture: Coarse to medium

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Minimum Soil Depth: 4-6" depth

Size a t 5 Years: I n f i l l w ithin one Water: Moist to moderate

year

Size a t Maturity: 6-10", solid cover Nutrients: Acid

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good, long-term

Seasonal Leafdrop: Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2^1;" pots - 35-50(/: ea. - Typical spacing: 8-10" o.c.
- Underground stolons
In s ta lla t io n Total: 2 x wholesale - Among best groundcovers fo r p a rtia l
shade
- Widely planted
R e feren ces :
Sunset (1979)
Wyman (1977)
Robinson (1960)
 -1 5 1 -

GRQUNDCOVER

ROSA WICHURAIANA (MEMORIAL ROSE)

Characteristics: Requirements:

Form: T r a i 1ing Light: Full sun

12-15" high

Shade Density: Medium Soil Texture: Coarse to f in e , well drai ned

Growth Rate; Rapid, 8-10'spread/ Minimum Soil Depth: 15-18"

year; slow to s t a r t

Size a t 5 Years: I n f i l l w ithin 5 years Water: Moist to moderate

Size a t Maturity: Large spread Nutrients: Poor soils

4-8" height

Seasonal Leafout: Early spring Container Tolerance: Very good

Seasonal Leafdrop: M id -fa ll Maintenance: Low

Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 12-18" BR, $ .80-1.25 - Typical spacing: 3-4' o.c.

2 yr ,2 - 3 ' BR, $1.30-2.00 - General thinning only to remove dead
In s t a lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale wood
- Erosion control and bank cover, stems
root in moist soils
References: - White summer flowers
Sunset (1979)
Wyman (1977)
Robinson (1960)
 • -152-
#
GROUNDCOVER

VINCA MINOR (PERIWINKLE or MYRTLE)

C haracteristics: Requirements:

Form: Prostrate Light: Full sun to dense shade

4-6" high

Shade Density: Dense cover Soil Texture: Coarse to fin e

Growth Rate: Moderate to rapid Minimum Soil Depth: 4-6"

12-18"/year

Size a t 5 Years: In fill in 2 years Water: Moist to drought-tol erant

Size a t Maturity: 4 -6 " , solid cover Nutrients: Very low requirements

Seasonal Leafout: Evergreen Container Tolerance: Very good

Seasonal Leafdrop: — Maintenance: Very low once established

il
Cost: Notes:

Nursery Wholesale: 2V' pots, $ .4 0 -.5 0 ea. - Typical spacing: 12-15" o.c.

In s ta lla t io n T o ta l: 2 X wholesale C ultivars - "Bowles" - la rg e r clumps.

A lt. - Vinca major - t a l l e r , only grown
References: in warmer climates
Wyman (1977)
Robinson (1960)
 -153-

SELECTED PROJECTS

Plants have often been combined with buildings, — Seattle Freeway Park; S e a ttle , Washington
though usually fo r aesthetics rath e r than energy (Lawrence H alprin, Landscape A rc h ite c t).
conservation. A large body of b u i l t projects exists:
f l a t roof gardens, terraced roof gardens, and balcony Planted Roofs: Residential Scale
and b r is - s o le i l planters. These e x is tin g projects
are a resource fo r anyone wishing to use plants fo r — Houses a t Rowan Lane; Capetown, South A frica
passive cooling, since they have addressed the (A. and A. de Souza Santos, A rc h ite c ts ).
s tru ctu ral and maintenance problems involved in
putting plants on buildings. Much can be learned — Wells' Architectural O ffice ; Cherry H i l l , New
from t h e ir success and f a i l u r e . Selected projects Jersey (Malcolm W ells, A rc h ite c t).
are therefore lis t e d below. Since parking lots
account fo r much of the pavement required near — S o laria; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
and around buildings, projects which have used (Malcolm Wells, A rc h ite c t).
trees and grass pavement are also lis t e d . In most
cases, these were designed to improve the appearance Terraced Gardens
of parking l o t s , but they have the additional bene­
f i t of preventing heat gain a t the ground surface. — Promentory Point; Newport Beach, C a lifo rn ia
(SWA Group, Landscape A rc h ite cts ).
Roof Gardens: Commercial/Large-Scale
Bris S oleil Planters
— Oakland Museum; Oakland, C a lifo rn ia (D. K iley,
Landscape A rc h ite c t). — Apartments, 2 Scott Road; Capetown, South A frica
(A. and A. de Souza Santos, A rc h ite c ts ).
— Kaiser Headquarters; Oakland, C a lifo rn ia
( I . Osmundson, Landscape A rc h ite c t). Parking Lot: Tree Canopy

— Weyerhauser Headquarters; Tacoma, Washington — Greenville-Spartenburg A irp o rt; South Carolina

(SWA Group, Landscape A rc h ite c ts ). (SOM Architects)

— Constitution Plaza; H artford, Connecticut — Nut Tree Parking Lot; F a i r f i e l d , C a lifo rn ia

(Sasaki Associates, Landscape A rchitects)

Place Bonaventure; Montreal, Canada (Sasaki Polariod Company; Waltham, Massachusetts

Associates, Landscape Architects)
 - 154
-

— Willows Shopping Center; Concord, C a lifo rn ia

(SWA Group, Landscape Architects)

— State Lots; Sacramento, C a lifo rn ia

— A. D. L i t t l e Parking Lots; Cambridge, Massachu­

setts

Parking Lot: Grass Pavement

— Security Pacific Lot; Los Angeles, C a lifo rn ia

— Canal S tre et; New Orleans, Louisiana

— Gulf Islands National Seashore; Gulf Breeze,

Florida

— Concord Pavilion; Concord, C a lifo rn ia (SWA Group,

Landscape Architects)

— City Parking Lot; Fort Lauderdale, Florida

— Emory University; A tla n ta , Georgia

— Dayton Green Parking Lot; Dayton, Ohio

— Tacoma Pavilion; Tacoma, Washington

(Lawrence H alprin, Landscape A rc h ite c t).

— Sweet and Associates; Schenectady, New York

— R. J. Reynolds O ffice Building; C harlotte,

North Carolina

— U.S. Naval Academy; Annapolis, Maryland

(Zion and Breen, Landscape Architects)
 - 155-

1. Roofdeck, Oakland Museum, Oakland, C a l i f o r n i a .

2. Roofdeck Pla nt er s, Oakland Museum, Oakland, C a l i f o r n i a .

- 156-

3. Vine Wal l, Oakland Museum, Oakland, C a l i f o r n i a .

4. Vine T r e l l i s , Dumbarton Oaks, Washington, D.C.

 - 157-

5. Tree Screen, Portland, Oregon.

6. Tree Screen, F l i n t , Michigan,

- 158-

7. Nut Tree Parking Lot, F a i r f i e l d , C a l i f o r n i a .

8. State Parking Lots, Sacramento, C a l i f o r n i a .

 - 159-

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10. Grass Pavement.

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