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The Daily Insight

Do magnolia trees have destructive roots?

Author

Daniel Foster

Published May 25, 2026

Do magnolia trees have destructive roots?

Like many magnolia trees, their root system is wide and stretches out horizontally as much as four times the width of the tree canopy. However, magnolia tree roots are not considered as invasive and potentially destructive as some root systems. But their large spread can affect weak foundations.

Are magnolia roots bad for foundations?

ANSWER: Because magnolia roots are large and close to the surface they give the impression that they will cause damage to foundations, sidewalks and other features of your hardscape. Magnolia roots are relatively soft and fleshy compared to other trees.

Do magnolias have big roots?

Remember that the magnolia root system is very wide, up to four times the width of the tree canopy. In fact, magnolia tree roots spread farther than those of most trees. If your house is within root range, the roots can work their way into pipes under your house.

How does a magnolia tree affect your house?

Remember that the magnolia root system is very wide, up to four times the width of the tree canopy. In fact, magnolia tree roots spread farther than those of most trees. If your house is within root range, the roots can work their way into pipes under your house. As they do, they damage your home’s structure and/or plumbing system.

Why does my magnolia tree have root rot?

Root rot is caused by various soil pathogens. When it comes to magnolia trees, there are certain Phytophthora species to blame, including the cinnamomi, parasitics, cirtricola, cactorum, and the cryptogea.

How are magnolia trees different from other trees?

The magnolia root system is quite different, and the trees grow large, flexible, rope-like roots. These magnolia tree roots grow horizontally, not vertically, and stay relatively close to the soil surface. Because of this, planting magnolias near houses can lead to magnolia tree root damage.

Is it OK to plant magnolia tree roots near house?

Are magnolia roots invasive? The answer is yes and no. While the roots are not necessarily invasive, you may get magnolia tree root damage when the trees grow too close to your house. Most tree roots seek a water source, and magnolia tree roots are no exception.

Remember that the magnolia root system is very wide, up to four times the width of the tree canopy. In fact, magnolia tree roots spread farther than those of most trees. If your house is within root range, the roots can work their way into pipes under your house. As they do, they damage your home’s structure and/or plumbing system.

Root rot is caused by various soil pathogens. When it comes to magnolia trees, there are certain Phytophthora species to blame, including the cinnamomi, parasitics, cirtricola, cactorum, and the cryptogea.

How to care for magnolia tree after transplant?

Transplanted magnolia roots need extra care during the first season after transplanting, so water frequently and apply a layer of mulch around the root zone to retain moisture and protect the roots from temperature fluctuations.

The magnolia root system is quite different, and the trees grow large, flexible, rope-like roots. These magnolia tree roots grow horizontally, not vertically, and stay relatively close to the soil surface. Because of this, planting magnolias near houses can lead to magnolia tree root damage.