Question
I need some sort of tall plant to go into a planter area to block an unsightly area.  I thought about podocarpus macryophlla as several along a line would do the job.  I need to have as little root growth as possible as damage to brick planters has already occured.
also, looking for lovely filler plants for another area with good am. sun,again next to the house and the planters are breaking from excessive root growth.thanks

Answer
Patty,
I did some checking and unless you plant dwarf varieties, then you will run into the same problem that you have currently.
I would recommend using vines like english ivy or wisteria using trellises. These plants have roots that will not break free from a planter and will block out the offending area.
Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen