Deep Rooted larger sized trees?

Question

I need to plant some trees for shade in my back yard, however we have retaining walls on sides as our yard was built up higher. What trees can I plant close to these walls that won't root into them and break them down in years to come?

Answer 1

any where you plant the tree it might do that. it is the natural way of life. remember the root system of a tree is the same size of the tree or bigger

Answer 2

if you live in a climate that can grow palm trees then palms have shallow root growth.
Some trees are worse offenders than others. Arhontes recommended planting "sewer-friendly" types such as palm trees with shallow roots.
Exception might be Royal Palm
Based on staff recommendations and research, the district has identified "better trees" as crepe myrtle, boronia, myrtle wattle, coast banksia, prickly Moses, daisy bush, small crowea, grevillea, heath and westringia.
http://www.pipedoctorusa.com/LA_Times.html