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Tree or shrub? #877126

Asked July 13, 2024, 10:22 PM EDT

I found this growing in my front garden outside my front door. Trying to determine if I should let it grow or if it will have roots that will hurt my foundation.

El Paso County Colorado

Expert Response

Hi Stacey,

Thank you for contacting the Colorado State University Extension Master Gardener Help Desk with you question about identifying your plant. From your pictures it looks like a tree (not a shrub) and is some sort of maple.

Here are two links with information on tree placement tips from CSU Plant Talk and tree root damage to foundations from Purdue University Extension that you may find helpful in making a decision whether to keep or remove the tree.

https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/design/1120-tree-placement-tips/

https://www.purdue.edu/fnr/extension/question-can-tree-roots-cause-damage-to-a-homes-foundation/

Thank you for using our service.

Best regards,

Sue W.

Colorado Master Gardener

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 15, 2024, 5:28 PM EDT

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