In our beautiful state of Queensland, but all across Australia and the world, trees are absolutely cherished for their beauty and their contribution to our amazing and all-important environment. They grace our landscapes, give us shade, and play an invaluable role in the ecological balance that makes life on earth both possible and incredible. However, we also need to realise that trees are living entities with their own survival instincts – just like us. And some trees – particularly those with invasive roots – pose serious challenges to human thriving, habitation and infrastructure. Acknowledging the complex nature of trees, and realising what trees with invasive roots Australia wide mean for our lives, helps us manage them responsibly and mitigate the negative impacts.
What are invasive roots?
Invasive roots are the ones that spread ultra-aggressively, invading and damaging areas where they can cause damage to structures and utilities. These roots infiltrate pipes and sewer lines, crack footpaths and pavements, and compromise the critical foundations of our invaluable properties. It makes understanding the true nature of invasive roots absolutely essential, particularly in urban environments where the proximity of trees to infrastructure is close.
As we take a deeper dive, we’ll highlight the tree species in Queensland and the broader Australian region that are the most notorious for their invasive root systems.
The impact of trees with invasive roots
Let’s explore some of the most common trees in Queensland known for their destructive and invasive root systems, which – despite those trees’ visual appeal – can unfortunately lead to significant property damage:
1. Fig trees (Ficus spp.)
Figs are absolutely iconic in Queensland and beyond for their majestic appearance and extensive canopy providing vast shade.
But their root systems are notoriously aggressive, as they seek out much-needed moisture from your precious plumbing lines – leading to costly repairs.
2. Camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora)
They’re known for their aromatic leaves, robust growth, and incredible aesthetic appeal, which is why camphor laurel is so popular in so many different landscapes.
However, those roots can spread extensively and aggressively under our feet, disturbing building foundations and even road surfaces.
3. Willow trees (Salix spp.)
Willows really are loved the world over for their graceful form – and that unmistakable way their branches sway beautifully in the breeze.
But those water-thirsty roots are absolutely notorious for invading – and clogging – your precious water lines.
4. Poplar trees (Populus spp.)
Poplars grow quickly, providing fast and total shade and serving as much-needed wind-breaks.
Those invasive roots, though, are very much known among professional arborists for causing serious problems for sewer systems – and have even been known for lifting up footpaths out the front and back of your home!
5. Golden bamboo (Phyllostachys aurea)
Not exactly a tree, we know. But this beautiful bamboo is super-popular for its rapid growth and ability to serve as amazing privacy screening.
Bamboo roots and rhizomes, however, spread rapidly and ultra-invasively – smashing up your gardens, cracking your precious pathways, and even infiltrating walls.
6. Eucalyptus trees (Eucalyptus spp.)
We all know how iconic eucalyptus and gum trees are all across Australia. They not only remind us daily about how grand, expansive, and incredible our country is, but they also provide a home and source of food for local wildlife. And you just love the scent, don’t you?
However, the roots can be as expansive as these trees are grand, which dehydrates the surrounding soil, damages other plant life, and endangers your property’s structures.
The 6 most invasive root systems: Protect your property
Trees: they’re an invaluable and beautiful part of our natural landscape – but we still need to be aware that the species with particularly invasive root systems really can cause major headaches and devastating property damage!
For residents in and around the Gold Coast facing issues with these types of trees and many more, professional advice and services from a reputable arborist are absolutely crucial. JC Tree Services specialises in assessing and managing trees with invasive roots to ensure the safety and integrity of your property – and sometimes that can even mean an unfortunate and professional tree removal.
Need some advice about tree placement, information about certain tree species, or tree removal and other tree services? JC Tree Services offers expert and local solutions tailored to your needs and your needs alone. Protect your property whilst maintaining the beauty, charm and health of your landscape by getting in touch with our experienced team today.
