[Objective] Based on the improved transpiration observation method, the transpiration characteristics and energy budget of common ecological restoration tree species in coal mining subsidence areas were studied in order to provide a theoretical basis for the selection of tree species and water regulation in ecological restoration in mining areas.[Methods] The reference leaf type was selected, and transpiration of Salix psammophila, Hippophae rhamnoides and Caragana korshinskii were determined by "three-temperature model" + thermal infrared remote sensing method in the field environment. The transpiration characteristics and the energy budget during the transpiration process were analyzed.[Results] ① Green cardboard could replace dried plant leaves at 9:00-15:00 as a reference leaf for plant transpiration determination. ② The diurnal changes of transpiration rate of Salix psammophila, Hippophae rhamnoides, and Caragana korshinskii were all single-peak curves. The highest instantaneous transpiration rate were 0.57, 0.61, 0.71 mm/h, respectively. And the daily transpiration rate was 3.24, 3.27, 3.80 mm,respectively. ③ The daily variation of the hat(which meant plant transpiration diffusion coefficient, used to evaluate plant water deficit status) value of Hippophae rhamnoides was "single-peak type", while that of Caragana korshinskii and Salix psammophila was a "double-peak type". The daily average value of transpiration diffusion coefficient was in descending order:Salix psammophila (0.18)> Hippophae rhamnoides (0.11)> Caragana korshinskii (0.03). ④ The sensible heat flux (H) of Salix psammophila, and Caragana korshinskii were less than 0 at 15:00.[Conclusion] Salix psammophila, Hippophae rhamnoides and Caragana korshinskii can all absorb heat from the surrounding environment through the cold island effect for transpiration and reduce the environmental temperature. Salix psammophila is suitable for planting in areas with flat terrain and abundant water. Hippophae rhamnoides and Caragana korshinskii can be used for ecological restoration by aerial seeding in areas hard to reach by humans and with water deficit.