2. Those with smaller courtyards will need to ensure the tree is pruned as it grows to quite a large size over time. Their wide and low growing canopy needs room to grow. These trees need plenty of space above and below ground to fully flourish. HEIGHT AND SHAPE AT MATURITY Small to Medium Tree 5 to 8 metres Conical shape. It bears greenish-yellow flowers in Winter/Spring. Ask your plant nursery specialist or landscaper for recommendations. Identify Non-Native, Invasive Trees & Shrubs in Australia. From evergreens to trees with showy flowers or bright fall color, you have lots of options when choosing fast-growing shade trees. Evergreen alder (Alnus acuminata) Also known as A. jorullensis, these trees are not suitable for small backyards as they grow to a massive size. Plus, it helps that they’re all beautiful trees! 2. Trees planted near walkways or close to buildings often require directional pruning, affecting the symmetry of the canopy. These trees can be prone to topple in strong wind and storms and the root systems are known to rip out underground pipes in the process. Fast growing shade tree. Grows to 10 metres high x 4 metres wide. The tree is native to China, though it grows well in certain areas of Australia such as Melbourne. Like the other trees mentioned, the Poinciana also has a large and invasive root system. Is suitable around houses and ponds as it has a non-invasive root system and can also be used in containers. In narrow spaces plant around 2-3m apart. It bears greenish-yellow flowers in Winter/Spring. SPECIAL FEATURES As a street tree As a specimen tree As a windbreak Along Roadside Has Non-invasive roots This tree is native to eastern Australia. The roots will break pipes, jack up fences and cause paving to buckle. There are many pittosporum species and cultivars that can be grown as narrow screening trees. Oak (Zones 8-10): A fast-growing, beloved tree notorious for causing foundational damage; Best Trees to Plant Near a House. < Expand the Menu to access our Tree Identification Pages. These trees make the list because of their non-invasive roots or low-maintenance cleanup. Better choices for around the garden are smaller, slower growing trees and shrubs which have shallower root systems. A hardy, small to medium tree (5-8 m) from inland Australia which is suitable for hot, dry climates. Pittosporum (Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Silver Sheen’). 4. Very hardy with non-invasive roots and grows well in all soil conditions. ‘Silver Sheen’ is a good choice as it has attractive silvery green leaves that can brighten a dull spot. Good streetscape or specimen tree which is very hardy and pollution tolerant. This ancient tree is slow growing but those with patience will be rewarded. Planted in the garden, these figs develop into huge trees, with invasive roots that crack water pipes and damage foundations. This web page shows enlarged views of full tree, bark, leaf, flower and/or fruit samples of introduced and invasive (sometimes noxious) tree species spreading in … Eucalyptus Trees (Gum Tree) There are a number varieties of gum tree's growing in Australia, and has a far-reaching and aggressive root system. Native with non-invasive roots. Evergreen trees are simply the most popular landscape trees in Australia including selections of Acmena, Elaeocarpus, Ficus, Magnolia, Syzygium, Tristaniopsis and Waterhousea. Greyish white and inconspicuous flowers followed by orange berries. Is suitable around houses and ponds as it has a non-invasive root system and can also be used in containers.