Non-invasive tree roots refer to roots that do not cause significant damage to underground structures such as pipes, sidewalks, foundations, etc. They grow horizontally and remain close to the surface of the soil, rather than growing deep into the ground and disrupting nearby structures. Some examples of non-invasive tree species include magnolias, dogwoods, and crepe myrtles.
Table Of Contents
- 1 List Of Non-Invasive Tree Roots
- 2 Dogwoods (Cornus)
- 3 Magnolias (Magnolia)
- 4 Redbuds (Cercis)
- 5 Serviceberries (Amelanchier)
- 6 Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia)
- 7 Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum)
- 8 Stewardias (Stewardia)
- 9 Fringetrees (Chionanthus)
- 10 Witch Hazels (Hamamelis)
- 11 Is It Good To Place Non Invasive Tree Near Home?
- 12 At The End
List Of Non-Invasive Tree Roots
- Dogwoods (Cornus)
- Magnolias (Magnolia)
- Redbuds (Cercis)
- Serviceberries (Amelanchier)
- Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia)
- Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum)
- Stewardias (Stewardia)
- Fringetrees (Chionanthus)
- Witch Hazels (Hamamelis)
Dogwoods (Cornus)

Dogwoods (Cornus) is one of the small root trees, that are a group of trees and shrubs that are widely planted for their ornamental value. Dogwoods are known for their attractive flowers, which range from white to pink to red, and are often accompanied by colorful foliage, fruit, and bark. When selecting a dogwood species for your landscape, it is important to consider the growing conditions, mature size, and hardiness of the tree, as well as the desired aesthetic effect. Dogwoods (Cornus) have non-invasive roots. Dogwoods have a relatively shallow root system that is less likely to cause damage to underground pipes, sidewalks, and other structures. However, as with any tree, it is still important to consider the mature size of the tree, soil conditions, and other factors when planting. It is also important to research the specific species of dogwood you are interested in and make sure it is non-invasive in your area.
Magnolias (Magnolia)

Magnolias (Magnolia) are a group of flowering trees and shrubs that are widely cultivated for their beautiful, fragrant flowers and attractive foliage. The root system of Magnolias (Magnolia spp.) can vary greatly depending on the species and cultivar. Some magnolias have non-invasive roots, while others can be more aggressive. In general, transient magnolias tend to have non-invasive roots, while evergreen magnolias may have more aggressive root systems. However, this is not a hard and fast rule and it is important to research the specific species and cultivar you are interested in to determine its root behavior. As with any tree, it is important to consider the mature size of the tree, soil conditions, and other factors when planting.
Redbuds (Cercis)

Redbuds (Cercis) are considered to have non-invasive roots. Redbuds have a relatively shallow root system that is less likely to cause damage to underground pipes, sidewalks, and other structures. However, as with any tree, it is still important to consider the mature size of the tree, soil conditions, and other factors when planting. It is also important to research the specific species of redbud you are interested in and make sure it is non-invasive in your area.
Serviceberries (Amelanchier)

Serviceberries (Amelanchier spp.) are deciduous shrubs or small trees that are widely popular as ornaments. Each species of serviceberry has its own unique characteristics, including flower color, size, and blooming time, as well as foliage, growth habits, and hardiness. Serviceberries are known for their attractive flowers, which range from white to pink, and are often accompanied by colorful foliage and fruit. When selecting a serviceberry species for your landscape, it is important to consider the growing conditions, mature size, and hardiness of the shrub, as well as the desired aesthetic effect.
Serviceberries (Amelanchier) generally have non-invasive roots, making them a good choice for planting in close proximity to structures, sidewalks, and other garden features. However, as with all plants, the size and invasiveness of the root system can vary depending on the species and growing conditions, so it is always a good idea to research before planting. Additionally, proper planting techniques, such as selecting the appropriate size and type of container, and planting at the correct depth, can help to minimize root invasiveness and promote healthy growth.
Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia)

Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia spp.) are evergreen trees and shrubs, simply referred as small root trees. Crepe Myrtles are known for their showy flowers, which range from pink to purple to white, and are often accompanied by attractive bark and foliage. When selecting a Crepe Myrtle species for your landscape, it is important to consider the growing conditions, mature size, and hardiness of the tree or shrub, as well as the desired aesthetic effect.
As per research Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia) are having non-invasive roots, they can be placed near to sidewalks, and other garden features. However, as with all plants, the size and invasiveness of the root system can vary depending on the species and growing conditions, so it is always a good idea to research a specific cultivar or species before planting. Additionally, proper planting techniques, such as selecting the appropriate size and type of container, and planting at the correct depth, can help to minimize root invasiveness and promote healthy growth.
Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum)

Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum), Acer palmatum is a species of deciduous trees and shrubs commonly known as Japanese Maple. These are fleeting trees and shrubs known for their delicate leaves, which can range in color from green to orange to red, and are often accompanied by attractive bark and fall foliage. Japanese Maples are popular for their use in bonsai, rock gardens, and other landscaping projects. When selecting a Japanese Maple cultivar for your landscape, it is important to consider the growing conditions, mature size, and hardiness of the tree or shrub, as well as the desired aesthetic effect. Japanese Maples are known for their slow growth and delicate nature, and should be protected from harsh winds and hot, direct sunlight.
Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum) generally have non-invasive roots. Their root systems are typically smaller compared to other tree species and are unlikely to cause damage to sidewalks, patios, or other structures. However, it is important to plant Japanese Maples in well-drained soil and to provide them with adequate growing space to minimize any potential root problems. Additionally, proper planting techniques, such as selecting the appropriate size and type of container, and planting at the correct depth, can help to minimize root invasiveness and promote healthy growth.
Stewardias (Stewardia)

Stewardia are relatively slow-growing and are known for their non-invasive root systems, making them well-suited for use in a variety of landscape settings. It is important to plant Stewardia in well-drained soil and to provide them a growing & free space to promote healthy growth and to minimize any potential root problems. Stewardia, also known as Japanese Stewartia or Deciduous Azalea, is a genus of deciduous trees and shrubs in the family Theaceae. They are native to eastern Asia with small root systems. Stewardia trees and shrubs are known for their attractive bark, delicate flowers, and colorful fall foliage. They are commonly used as specimen plants or in groupings, and are well-suited for use in rock gardens or as woodland plants.
There are no indications that Stewardias (Stewardia) have invasive roots. They are generally considered to have non-invasive roots, meaning that their root systems are unlikely to cause significant damage to sidewalks, patios, or other structures. This makes Stewardias a good choice for homeowners who are looking to add trees to their landscape without worrying about root invasiveness. However, it is important to plant Stewardias in well-drained soil and to provide them with adequate growing space to minimize any potential root problems. Additionally, proper planting techniques, such as selecting the appropriate size and type of container, and planting at the correct depth, can help to minimize root invasiveness and promote healthy growth.
Fringetrees (Chionanthus)

Fringetrees (Chionanthus) with the large shrubs in the family Oleaceae, fragrant, white, lace-like flowers that bloom in spring and their attractive, blue-black fruit. known for their relatively non-invasive root systems, Making them a good choice for homeowners.
Witch Hazels (Hamamelis)

Witch Hazels (Hamamelis) trees have non-invasive roots, Hamamelis is trees in the witch hazel family (Hamamelidaceae) that are native to North America and Asia. They are known for their highly fragrant, yellow or orange, spidery flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring and their bright yellow to orange autumn foliage.
Is It Good To Place Non Invasive Tree Near Home?
Yes as trees with non-invasive roots can be placed for a few reasons:
- Protection of underground structures: Non-invasive roots are less likely to cause damage to underground structures such as pipes, sidewalks, and foundations, which can be costly to repair.
- Maintenance: Trees with non-invasive roots are less likely to require regular maintenance, such as root pruning, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
- Landscaping design: Non-invasive roots allow homeowners to plant trees closer to buildings, walls, and sidewalks, allowing for more flexibility in landscaping design.
- Aesthetics: Trees with non-invasive roots often have a neat and compact root system, which can enhance the appearance of a landscape.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that no tree root system is completely non-invasive. It is still necessary to consider the mature size of the tree, soil conditions, and other factors when selecting trees for your yard.
At The End
Planting non invasive tree roots instead of trees with invasive roots is a good choice; but proper planting techniques, such as selecting the appropriate size and type of container, and planting at the correct depth, can help to minimize root invasiveness and promote healthy growth.
it is important to consider a few factors before planting any tree, including:
- Space: Make sure you have enough space in your backyard to accommodate the size of the tree when it reaches maturity.
- Soil conditions: Make sure the soil in your backyard is suitable for the tree you want to plant. Some trees may require well-drained soil, while others may prefer moist soil.
- Light conditions: Consider the amount of sunlight the area in your backyard receives and choose a tree that is appropriate for those light conditions.
- Climate: Make sure the tree you choose is suitable for the climate in your area. Some trees may not be able to withstand harsh winters or hot summers.