Question
Hi Marc -   We moved into a house that has what I think is a carrotwood tree planted a few feet from the house.  Are these roots safe to be so close to the foundation or should we have it removed?   

Question 2:  Our neighbors behind us just removed all the vines and foilage from their side of the wall that devides the property and we lost about 4 feet of "privacy".  Can you recommend a type of tree that gets tall and stays green (prefer leafy - don't like evergreens) that might be good for that type of situation?   

We are in Irvine CA (between LA and San Diego) and our dirt is very hard and clay like.   

Thanks so much!  Sarah

Answer
1.)  What a lovely tree! The Cupaniopsis has no specific invasive root problems to speak of (its a rather "neat" tree), but how close is too close?  If its less than 3 feet, then its worth watching.   IF there is the slightest hint of foundation damage (exposed roots next to the foundation, cracks, wet spots, etc.), then don't hesitate to rip it out.  If there is no sign of trouble, then this lovely evergreen is fine just where it is.  I've planted trees WITH a root barrier, as close as 2-1/2 feet to a sidewalk/parking lot.

Our local code says a tree has to be at least 5 feet away (to avoid future potential problems), but it is just a guide.

2.) No reason you cannot plant vines right back up there on your side...maybe on an attractive trellis.  Your favorable climate will support just about anything...like a lovely Bougainvillea, though it can be somewhat mess, with all the pretty flowers scattering everywhere after they bloom.   Of course, the Carrotwood gets tall & green, and it IS an evergreen in Southern California.  And you have proof it grows well in your area.

If you are looking specifically for a small tree, then here are a passle of ideas: Acacia, Arbutus, Eyucalytus (50+ varieties - so chose carefully), Abelia, Bamboo (also lots of varieties, and yes, some -not all- do get invasive), Bottlebrush, Carissa, Dodonaea, Escallonia, Ficus, Ilex, Eriobotrya, Melaleuca, and Umbellularia.

San Diego is a great place to grow stuff, and clay soils can be modified with a bit of organic matter.  Most trees are pretty tough...For more ideas (or to cut the choices down!), look over some fences in your neighborhood & see what the neighbors have been planting, too.

Good luck! -Marc