In many urban areas, plants can’t be planted directly in the ground. Instead, they are often grown in pots or raised planters. If you walk through any major city, you’ll see greenery on rooftops, terraces and courtyards, often surrounded by concrete or stone.
These elevated garden beds, commonly known as podium planters, help bring natural beauty into built environments. They are typically installed on rooftops or other raised structures and can be made from concrete, timber, fibre cement, or blockwork. Podium planters are a practical way to soften hard urban spaces and create relaxing, green areas.
When you look closely, you’ll notice that some podium planters are sparse and dry, while others overflow with healthy, thriving plants. What causes the difference? While several factors play a role (read our post on how to create a successful podium garden here), one of the most important is plant selection.
Podium planters present a unique set of challenges. Plants in these environments must cope with limited root space, heat reflection from surrounding surfaces, wind exposure, and sometimes inconsistent watering. Because of these factors, choosing hardy species that tolerate harsh conditions is key to long-term success.
Below are six resilient plant species that thrive in subtropical podium planters.
Aptenia cordifolia (Baby Sun Rose)
Baby Sun Rose is a low-growing, fast-spreading succulent. Its small, heart-shaped leaves have a glossy finish, and in warm weather, it produces bright, daisy-like flowers that attract pollinators like bees.
This groundcover loves full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it requires minimal water, making it ideal for low-maintenance spaces with high exposure.
Hibbertia scandens (Snake Vine)
Hibbertia scandens, also known as Snake Vine, is a vigorous Australian native. It features bold yellow flowers that bloom through spring and summer, adding colour and interest to vertical or trailing spaces.
This evergreen vine grows well in full sun or part shade. It’s ideal for softening walls, spilling over planter edges, or climbing trellises, and it performs reliably in subtropical conditions.
Alocasia brisbanensis (Elephant Ear)
Commonly known as Brisbane Taro or Elephant Ear, Alocasia brisbanensis makes a dramatic statement with its large, glossy, arrow-shaped leaves.
It prefers filtered light and moist, well-drained soil. Reaching heights of up to 1.5 metres, it adds structure and a lush, tropical feel to shaded areas of a podium garden.
Philodendron Varieties
Philodendrons are loved for their bold foliage and low-maintenance nature. Several varieties suit podium planters, especially in subtropical climates. Two reliable choices are:
- Philodendron xanadu – A compact plant with deeply lobed, glossy green leaves. It grows well in part shade and typically reaches around 1.5 metres tall and wide.
- Philodendron ‘Congo’ – Known for its large, leathery green leaves. This variety prefers bright, indirect light and works well in larger pots as a tropical feature.
Both options grow reliably in confined spaces and bring strong visual interest to container gardens.
Carissa ‘Desert Star’ (Natal Plum)
Natal Plum is a dense, evergreen shrub ideal for smaller podium planters. It grows to about 1 metre high and wide and features glossy green leaves, fragrant white flowers in spring, and small red fruit.
This plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. It is highly drought-tolerant and low maintenance, making it a smart choice for water-wise gardens.
Things to Consider Before Planting
Although the species listed above are well-suited to podium planters, a thriving garden still requires careful planning. Ensure that your planters are deep enough to support healthy root systems, offer adequate drainage, and are fitted with a reliable irrigation solution.
It’s also important to assess your site’s microclimates. Sun exposure, wind patterns, and shade can all impact plant performance. Matching the right plant to the right spot will increase the success of your garden.If you’d like expert advice or help with your project, get in touch with us today. We’d love to help you transform your rooftop, courtyard, or terrace into a lush, green space.