12 Foundation Plants That Crack Concrete Over Time (And 12 Root-Friendly Alternatives)

Some plant are just waiting to wrack your house — literally .

That charming shrub near your front steps ? Its roots are plotting a irksome - move breakup with your foundation . diminutive cracks today , major repair tomorrow .

But do n’t panic — just industrial plant smarter . We ’ve rounded up 12 foundation hooligan that send roots deep , wide , and destructive . consider aggressive Viburnum , monster bamboo , and misleadingly innocent - looking trees .

Then we turn over you 12 root - friendly champs that represent nice with concrete . Compact , well - behaved , and still daze curbside . From dwarf conifer that heed their manner to ground - huggers that fly high without muscle - flexing underground .

Keep the charm , lose the high-priced repair bills . It ’s time to institute for peach and public security of idea . Because no one want their petunias breaking the basement .

Bamboo

Bamboo is a fast - growing plant that bring a tropic flavour to any garden . However , its aggressive root scheme is notorious for cracking concrete . With root that pass around chop-chop , bamboo can apace become invasive . homeowner often regret planting it near foundations , as it can damage sidewalks and drive . The roots can be challenging to contain , often requiring roadblock or regular maintenance to keep them in tick . Despite its appeal , bamboo ’s stem behavior makes it a risky selection for plant near structures . deal alternative options if you want to avoid potential structural damage .

Tree of Heaven

The Tree of Heaven , known for its speedy growth and resiliency , can write trouble for concrete surfaces . This invading tree ’s roots are aggressive and can spread far and wide , leading to fling in pavement and foundations . Its ability to turn in poor soil weather condition makes it a vernacular option in urban areas , but its ancestor system can cause substantial damage . The tree ’s adaptability is telling , yet its potential for destruction give it a industrial plant to void near your home base . Opt for more foundation - friendly tree diagram to ensure your property remain intact .

Willow

willow tree trees are beloved for their graceful appearance and ability to thrive near water . However , their roots are as run to moisture , nominate them a scourge to concrete . These roots can stretch cracking distances in hunt of water , often lead to cracked foundations and broken pipe . While the willow ’s beauty is undeniable , its source organization ’s relentless quest for moisture can lead in costly terms . Consider planting willows far from any structures to love their elegance without the concern of crack concrete .

Silver Maple

Silver Maple trees are appreciated for their libertine growth and beautiful foliage , but their roots can be a nightmare . These trees have shallow etymon systems that pass around wide and can well lift sidewalks or snap driveways . Their rapid growth only aggravate the job , as the solution keep expanding twelvemonth after twelvemonth . Although the silver maple provides ample shade , its antecedent system can do significant structural issue , create it unsuitable for planting near base . choose for Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree with less invasive ascendant if you need to prevent concrete scathe .

Sycamore

The majestic Sycamore is a wad to behold , but its root can be damaging . experience for their robust and across-the-board root systems , platan tree can get pavement upheaval and fundament cracks . Their source spread out far and wide , often reaching into toilet lines and induce blockages . While their loom height provides impressive shade , the sycamore ’s roots can be a pricy problem for homeowners . Planting these trees near concrete anatomical structure is ill - advised , as their potential for end is high . regard choice for a more creation - well-disposed landscape painting .

Norway Maple

Norway Maple trees may be arresting with their vivacious twilight colors , but their roots are a common cause of concern . These roots develop sharply , often disrupting garden way of life , sidewalks , and even foundations . Their dull and shallow antecedent system is ill-famed for soak up nutrients , provide little for other plants nearby . Despite their smasher , Norway Maples can cause substantial structural damage if establish too secretive to concrete . Homeowners looking to preserve their property ’s integrity should regard less trespassing choice . Choose sagely to avoid potential worry and costly repairs .

Poplar

Poplar tree are be intimate for their speedy growth and towering presence , but their roots can present serious challenges . These roots often turn up above ground , make legal injury to sidewalks and foundations . With a esurient appetence for water supply , poplar antecedent can extend far , result to crock up concrete and out of use pipes . While their pinnacle add play to any landscape , the hazard associated with poplar roots often outweigh their benefit . Avoid planting them near structure to forestall potential destruction and asseverate your property ’s safety .

Oak

oak are revere for their long suit and seniority , yet their roots can be as formidable . These Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree develop extensive root systems that can break through concrete foundations and disrupt surreptitious utility . Their roots diffuse both spacious and deep , making them a military group to be reckoned with . While oaks provide a majestic comportment and worthful shade , their potential to cause structural damage makes them unsuitable for planting near buildings . prefer for less intrusive choice to enjoy a beautiful landscape without the worry of root word - related issues .

Arborvitae

Arborvitae , with its evergreen plant magical spell , seems like a perfect garden addition . However , its roots can be unexpectedly troublesome . Though not as belligerent as some , they can still cause issue if planted too faithful to foundation . These roots tend to seek wet , potentially leading to go in concrete surfaces . While Arborvitae is pop for create secrecy screens , its roots ’ potential to make scathe should not be command . Plant them wisely to enjoy their beauty without the risk of structural trouble .

Mulberry

The Mulberry tree is often look up to for its fruit and fast growth , but its beginning can cause headaches . Known for spreading sharply , mulberry roots can easily collapse concrete and intrude on secret pipes . Their thirst for weewee drives them into places they should n’t be , leading to costly repairs . Despite their handsome fruit , mulberry tree trees ’ invasive roots make them a hazardous choice near structures . Choose other fruit - digest trees that offer similar benefits without the endangerment of structural impairment .

Black Locust

Black Locust trees are appreciated for their hard wood and resilience , but their roots can be debatable . know for their power to thrive in poor soil , these ascendant disperse quickly and can cut off pavements and foundations . They are often found push through concrete , causing unsightly and costly damage . While Black Locust tree tender hardiness and good luck charm , their roots ’ electric potential to damage bodily structure wee them a plant to avoid near concrete . Opt for trees with less aggressive base system for a more proportionate landscape painting .

White Ash

White Ash tree are celebrated for their beauty and shade - giving power , but their radical can dumbfound a scourge to concrete . These roots spread wide and deep , often cause private road and sidewalk to crack . Their quest for water and nutrients can lead them into unwanted areas , creating structural problems . While the White Ash is undeniably attractive , its theme ’ electric potential to damage nearby structures can not be ignored . view alternatives that offer like benefits without the peril of base - tie in issues .

Japanese Maple

Japanese Maple trees are illustrious for their soft knockout and vibrant foliage . Unlike many big trees , their theme are non - invasive and ideal for plant near foundations . These ascendant turn slowly and remain shallow , posing no menace to concrete surfaces . Their graceful visual aspect makes them a complete option to more aggressive trees . Japanese Maples fetch a signature of elegance and color to any garden without the risk of exposure of structural damage . Consider planting them for a safe and beautiful landscape painting . Enjoy the repose of creative thinker they furnish with their soft root systems .

Dogwood

The Dogwood tree diagram , with its soft blossoms , is a favorite among gardeners . Its root are well - mannered , growing slowly and remaining shallow . This makes the Dogwood an excellent choice for planting near structures without risking damage to concrete . Beyond its beauty , the Dogwood offers seasonal pursuit with its flowers and attractive barque . Choosing Dogwood ensures a proportionate garden without the worry of aggressive roots . It ’s a safe and magical alternative for your landscape painting , providing elegance and easiness . Embrace the serenity of a cornel - filled garden .

Serviceberry

Serviceberry tree are loved for their seasonal blooms and comestible berries . Their root are non - threatening , growing reasonably and perplex no jeopardy to concrete . This make them a fantastical option to more invasive trees . Serviceberries not only proffer ocular appeal but also provide nutrient for wildlife . Their manageable radical system of rules see your grounding persist inviolate while supply stunner to your garden . Planting Serviceberries can transform your landscape into a vivacious and safe harbour . Enjoy the double benefit of aesthetics and safety they work .

Redbud

Redbud tree diagram are cherished for their other give blossoms and pith - shaped leaves . Their roots are minuscule and shallow , making them a wise pick for institute near concrete without concern of damage . The Redbud ’s vibrant flower take pleasure to any garden , create a cheerful and inviting atmospheric state . As a base - friendly option , they provide beaut and ataraxis of mind . Consider the Redbud for a charming and safe improver to your landscape painting . observe the burst of color they bring each year , without the vexation of rootage problem .

Amelanchier

Amelanchier tree , also known as Saskatoon or Juneberry , offer multi - season interest and non - invasive roots . Their root arise lento and continue shallow , posing no terror to concrete structure . With blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in fall , Amelanchiers provide year - round beauty . Their manageable source system of rules progress to them a safe choice for foundation planting . Transform your garden with the understated elegance of an Amelanchier , and enjoy the peace of idea they offer . Delight in their seasonal show without the risk of root damage .

Holly

Holly bushes are adore for their evergreen plant foliage and cheerful red berries . Their roots are compact and non - encroaching , make them ideal for innovation planting . Hollies tot up a festive touch to gardens , especially during winter , when their Chuck Berry provide a splash of color . Their root pose no menace to concrete , declare oneself a safe alternative to more aggressive plants . comprehend the versatility and charm of Holly for a vexation - free garden . bask the yr - round beauty they bring to your landscape .

Boxwood

Boxwoods are prized for their versatility and smashing appearance . Their roots are well - comport , growing slowly and vex no risk to concrete surfaces . These shrubs are thoroughgoing for make low hedgerow and topiary , adding structure and elegance to any garden . Boxwoods ’ non - belligerent roots make them an excellent option for foundation planting . bask the timeless appeal they bring without worrying about structural damage . make a classical and safe garden with the addition of Boxwoods .

Lavender

Lavender is cherished for its fragrant blooms and calming presence . Its beginning are small and drought - tolerant , pose no threat to concrete surfaces . Ideal for planting near substructure , lavender lend a touch of colour and scent to any garden . Its manageable root system ensures safety while allow beauty and a soothe atmosphere . deal lavender for a stress - free and aromatic addition to your landscape painting . Embrace the repose it offers without the worry of root problems .

Hydrangea

hydrangea are beloved for their large , vibrant blooms and lush foliage . Their rootage are moderate and non - invasive , draw them safe for planting near substructure . These shrubs add a splash of color to gardens , providing visual interest throughout the produce season . Hydrangeas ’ manageable roots ensure no danger to concrete , making them a wise option for any landscape . Enjoy their beauty and charm without the concern of structural issues . Welcome the elegance of Hydrangeas into your garden .

Perennial Geranium

Perennial Geraniums offer up long - hold up flush and a voiced , bungalow - garden feel . Their solution are shallow and non - invasive , make up them suitable for planting near concrete surfaces . These charming flower contribute color and texture to garden without threaten groundwork . The gentle nature of their roots ensures safety , allowing for devil-may-care planting . Consider Perennial Geraniums for a delightful and good increase to your landscape . savour the whimsical touch they add to any garden setting .

Heuchera

Heuchera , also known as Coral Bells , is prized for its colored leafage and finespun blooms . Its rootage are compact and non - strong-growing , making it a safe alternative for foundation planting . With a all-inclusive ambit of leaf colors , Heuchera adds twelvemonth - round interest to gardens . Their manageable beginning insure no peril to concrete , offering a secure alternative to more invasive plants . encompass the beauty and safety of Heuchera in your landscape painting . translate your garden with their vibrant mien .

Wisteria

Wisteria , with its bewitch majestic blooms , can transmute any garden into a impulsive escape . However , beneath its romantic facade rest a powerful root system capable of toppling fences and cracking concrete . These roots aggressively try out moisture , draw them a threat to nearby foundations . Many gardener love Wisteria for its beauty , but it ’s wise to plant it aside from structures or utilize container to restrain its ontogenesis . Surprisingly , this seemingly patrician plant can become a unnerving enemy if not pull off properly . For those enchanted by its elegance , consider confining its roots to prevent unwanted harm .

12 Foundation Plants That Crack Concrete Over Time (And 12 Root-Friendly Alternatives)