12 Ornamental Plants That Could Ruin Your Home’s Foundation

Gardening can transform your outdoor space, adding color, life, and serenity to your surroundings. However, not all ornamental plants are harmless when it comes to your home’s foundation. Some seemingly beautiful plants may pose a threat to the structural integrity of your property if planted too close to your house.

1. Wisteria

Wisteria’s cascading blooms are a favorite for many homeowners, but its aggressive root system can wreak havoc on nearby foundations. These invasive roots spread rapidly in search of water, and without proper control, they can compromise the integrity of foundations, patios, and other structures, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden. Keep wisteria planted well away from your house to avoid costly repairs.

2. Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)

While the black walnut tree may offer shade and aesthetic value, it can harm your home in more ways than one. Its roots release a toxic chemical known as juglone, which can leach into the soil, causing damage to nearby plants and wooden structures. This toxicity can even affect the foundation, as the chemical weakens the wood, making it more susceptible to decay.

3. Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea)

Commonly known as ground ivy, Creeping Charlie is highly invasive and easy to grow. However, once it establishes itself, it can work its way into the cracks of your home’s foundation, floors, or walls. The plant’s roots are difficult to remove, and its growth can undermine the structural stability of your property.

4. Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)

Lilacs are beautiful shrubs that many gardeners cherish for their fragrant blooms, but they have large, invasive root systems. If planted too close to your house, their roots can disturb the foundation and lead to erosion. It’s best to plant lilacs at a safe distance to prevent foundation damage.

5. Forsythia (Forsythia suspensa)

Known for its vibrant yellow flowers, forsythia may look cheerful in your garden, but its extensive root system can spell trouble for your home. These fast-growing plants can burrow deep into the ground, putting pressure on your foundation and potentially leading to structural issues. Ensure you plant forsythia at least 6–8 feet away from your house.

6. Bamboo

Bamboo is famous for its rapid growth and aesthetic appeal in gardens, but its spreading roots—known as rhizomes—can be highly destructive. They can easily infiltrate concrete, plumbing, and nearby structures if not properly contained. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, bamboo is one of the most invasive plants, so it’s essential to keep it well away from your foundation.

7. Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila)

Siberian elms, commonly planted for shade or as privacy screens, can cause significant foundation damage due to their large, invasive root systems. These trees put pressure on the foundation, potentially compromising its stability. It’s recommended to avoid planting Siberian elms near your home to prevent structural damage.

8. Boxwood (Buxus spp.)

Boxwood shrubs are often used for hedges and borders due to their compact size and attractive appearance. However, their root systems are extensive and can damage the foundation if planted too close. To avoid any harm to your home, plant boxwoods a safe distance away from your structure.

9. Liriope (Liriope muscari)

Commonly known as lilyturf, liriope is a hardy perennial that grows in dense clumps. While it may seem harmless, liriope can exert considerable lateral force on your foundation and obstruct proper drainage. Make sure to plant it at a distance from your home to avoid any foundation issues.

10. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)

Flowering dogwoods are admired for their beautiful blooms, but their small root systems can pose a threat to your foundation, especially in areas with clay soils. To reduce the risk of foundation damage, plant flowering dogwoods in raised beds or amend the soil with organic matter to promote healthy root growth away from your home.

11. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

English ivy is often favored for its fast growth and ability to cover unsightly walls or fences. However, its aggressive root system can squeeze through brick crevices, causing significant damage to your home’s foundation. Keep ivy vines well away from your house to avoid expensive repairs.

12. Barberry (Berberis spp.)

Barberry bushes, known for their spiny leaves and vibrant flowers, can also be problematic for your foundation. Their strong root systems can cause damage to nearby structures if planted too close to your home. Plant barberry bushes at a safe distance to avoid any foundation issues.