Street tree species selection under climate change: linking public perception and climate suitability in Adelaide

Street tree species selection is increasingly shaped by both public expectations and climate change pressures. However, limited research has examined whether tree species preferred by the public are also suitable under projected hot – dry climate conditions. This study evaluates 20 commonly planted street tree species in Adelaide by integrating public perception data with climate suitability assessments to inform species-level decision-making. A controlled online survey (n = 416) was conducted using short video simulations that represented typical street walking conditions. Tree species were varied while all other street characteristics were kept constant. Participants rated attractiveness, comfort, safety, and willingness to stay. Linear mixed-effects models were used to test species-level differences, and climate suitability was evaluated using projected performance indicators relevant to future urban heat and drought conditions. Significant differences were found between species across all perceptual dimensions (p < .001), indicating that street tree species are not interchangeable in urban streetscapes. Jacaranda, London Plane Tree, Golden Rain Tree, and Claret Ash received higher ratings, whereas South Australian Blue Gum and Tuckeroo were rated lower. When public preference was considered alongside climate suitability, only a limited number of species performed well on both criteria. Jacaranda combined strong public ratings with relatively stable climate performance, suggesting suitability for major commercial streets. In contrast, climate-resilient but less preferred species may be more appropriate for exposed or constrained urban sites. These findings support a species-level approach to climate-adaptive street tree selection.