Root system architecture determines many of the vital functions of a tree e.g. stability of anchorage and resource uptake. The shoot: root ratio is determined through the allocation of resources. In this study, the root architecture, root diameter tapering rate and branching ratio of 3 different shrubs, Tamarix chinensis, Ziziphus jujube and Periploca sepium were studied in shell bay in Yellow River delta. The results showed that: root architecture differed greatly among species in terms of rooting behaviour. The ratio of horizontal to vertical root amplitude of Z. jujube and P.sepium was larger than that of T. chinensis, with mainly shallow root system. Root ranching pattern differed by species, with the shrub Z. jujube and P. sepium tending to be herringbone-like (TI=0.96, 0.85) and T. chinensis being dichotomous(TI=0.65).The average length of links was very long for all species, with shortest being T. chinensis, longest in Z. jujube. With increasing of link length, the tapering rate of Z. jujube tended to be slower compared to other two shrubs. In addition, we tested the "pipe-stem" theory. In short, the three kinds of shrubs should be divided into 2 root behavior for the adaptive strategies for resource exploration and exploitation. Namely,the horizontal roots expanding,fish-shaped foraging strategy, i.e Z. jujube and P. sepium. The other was T. chinensis with deep root system for full use of underground resource.