Abstract
This research aims to investigate the role of branching orientation of the root structure system in the stability of vegetated slopes. The effect of tap root anchoring in the firm layer on the stability of the slope is also investigated. Three-dimensional (3-D) finite element models associated with 3-D root architectures are established to analyze the stability of vegetated slopes. The branching pattern of the plant root system noticeably affects the stability of vegetated slopes. Tap roots contribute the most to the stability of slopes, followed by oblique roots at the downslope of the tree stem. The contribution of lateral roots at the downslope of the tree stem to the stability of slopes is less than that of oblique roots. The anchoring of tap roots in the firm layer considerably enhances the stability of the vegetated slopes and restrains the soil movement in the slope. Coarse oblique roots at the downslope side of the tree stem provide more contribution to the stability of the slope compared with that at the upslope side of the tree stem.
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