Chinese Elm

Minnie

Do Chinese elms and Pink Cassias have invasive roots? They are both mature trees and on my neighbors property and I am thinking of extending my property but worried if their roots may cause damage to foundations and water pipes.

derwoodii

Don't know the Pink cassia well but the Chinese elm can have lengthy ropey roots yet its not know as a pipe invasive or building wrecker .
You should be able to prune the Elm roots aside to best protect your development or design to retain the trees as unlikely your neighbor gonna remove them just for your foundations.

Brent Ferris

Like derwoodii, am not familiar with Pink Cassia but Chinese Elm roots -- like the tree top -- grow fast and wide. IF you are concerned with roots invading your property, install a root barrier inside your property line 3-6 feet deep (depending on soil type) cutting off any roots to install the barrier. If the trees are close to the property line, you should probably notify your neighbour first, as severe root pruning can kill the tree on that side.

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Minnie

Thanks for the info, much appreciated. I like the trees so wouldn't want them cut down or damaged by cutting roots away, so will get an arborist to have a look and advise me accordingly as to what to do.