This study examines the thermal reduction effect of plant layers on rooftops through experiments performed in a controlled environment. The relevant parameters are coverage ratio (CR) and total leaf thickness (TLT). Both parameters are positively correlated with thermal reduction ratio (TRR). The TRR data of all experiments were plotted on a grid system with CR on the x-axis and TLT on the y-axis. A TRR map was then drawn using the curve fitting process. The applicability of the TRR map drawn for Codiaeum variegatum (1) was further confirmed by performing experiments with Cordyline terminalis (1) and Ixora duffii (1) and by results of experiments on C. variegatum (2), C terminalis (2), Duranta repens, and I. duffii (2) in outdoor environments. The TRR map provides quantitative and straightforward guidance on thermal reduction planting arrangements for green roofs. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.