Question
Nick,

Could you please explain the root structure on a Royal Palm?  I thought it was just the bulb, however a landscape company is telling me that it has roots that grow away from it (in this case approximately 10-15 feet.  These roots are tearing up a parking area's asphalt.  Thank You, Barbara

Answer
Barbara, I am really at a loss hearing this, for I have seen many Royals right up against streets, structures even near septic systems that have not caused any kind of problems; if you check any city in South Florida, you will see them along streets, adjacent to parking lots etc. They have a large root structure, yes, but it is not like a tree's roots, where they can lift asphalt. They have weak roots that will break before breaking something else. I am not saying that what you are saying is wrong, I am just really amazed!