Tree Root Structure
A look at healthy tree root structure.
Two English oaks (Quercus robur), at different stages of development
![Two English oaks <em>(Quercus robur)</em>, at different stages of development](/assets/posts/root-structure-1.jpg)
![Two English oaks <em>(Quercus robur)</em>, at different stages of development](/assets/posts/root-structure-2.jpg)
Two black pines (Pinus nigra) with radically different root structures based on their location
![Two black pines <em>(Pinus nigra)</em> with radically different root structures based on their location](/assets/posts/root-structure-3.jpg)
![Two black pines <em>(Pinus nigra)</em> with radically different root structures based on their location](/assets/posts/root-structure-4.jpg)
This European beech (Fagus sylvatica), has a shallow root system typical of its species
![This European beech <em>(Fagus sylvatica)</em>, has a shallow root system typical of its species](/assets/posts/root-structure-5.jpg)
A European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) with an early stage of development pictured beneath. Note how the younger ash has already put out extensive roots on its uphill side
![A European ash <em>(Fraxinus excelsior)</em> with an early stage of development pictured beneath. Note how the younger ash has already put out extensive roots on its uphill side](/assets/posts/root-structure-6.jpg)
The common juniper (Juniperus communis ssp. communis) can take a wide range of forms, from creeping groundcover to upright tree. This individual exhibits a more upright growth habit.
![The common juniper <em>(Juniperus communis <span class='text-regular'>ssp.</span> communis)</em> can take a wide range of forms, from creeping groundcover to upright tree. This individual exhibits a more upright growth habit.](/assets/posts/root-structure-7.jpg)
A European aspen (Populus tremula) growing on a slope. Note the basal shoots (“suckers”) sprouting from its root system
![A European aspen <em>(Populus tremula)</em> growing on a slope. Note the basal shoots (“suckers”) sprouting from its root system](/assets/posts/root-structure-8.jpg)