Plant materials in median islands benefit a Grand Boulevard street environment in multiple ways. However, plant species should be selected to reflect the visibility requirements and support the land use and development objectives of a boulevard street.
In general, median plant materials should be “high-low” to provide for corridor visibility; i.e., high-branching trees and low-growing shrubs (see Figure 5-10). To promote a boulevard appearance and maximize environmental benefits, trees should be regularly spaced, with species characteristics including a high-branching, broad spreading canopy; a more columnar form may be appropriate in locations with narrow clearances. Dense screen landscape plantings should be discouraged unless screening is needed to support frontage development, for example a designated residential boulevard area.
