The box elder tree is a fascinating species with a rich history. Its scientific name is Acer negundo.
This deciduous tree is native to North America and is known for its unique compound leaves. The leaves are typically 5-20 inches long and have 3-5 leaflets.
The box elder tree has several common names, including box elder, box-elder maple, and black maple.
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Acer Negundo
The Acer Negundo, also known as the boxelder tree, is a maple tree that's easily distinguishable from other maples due to its unique leaf composition and dioecious species.
It's a very cold-hardy tree that can thrive in hardiness zones 2 to 10, making it a great option for many parts of the country.
The boxelder tree can grow up to 30 to 50 feet tall and wide, with a light gray-brown bark that develops deep furrows with age.
Its leaves are opposite and pinnately compound, with 3 to 7 leaflets that are slightly lobed and have a light green color above, sometimes with a fuzzy underside.
The foliage turns yellow in the fall, and the twigs often have a green or purplish color with a waxy coating that can be rubbed off.
The fuzzy white buds on the boxelder tree are a distinctive feature, and they can be found encapsulated underneath the petiole of the leaves.
The fruit on the tree is winged samaras that are paired and create a V-shape, with seeds maturing in the summer and staying attached to the tree in the winter.
Boxelder trees prefer full sun and can tolerate poor soil conditions, making them a great option for urban environments where other trees may struggle to grow.
Common Name(s)
The box elder tree is commonly known as the American box elder, boxelder, or simply box elder.
Its common names can vary by region, but it's often referred to as a maple tree due to its similar leaf shape.
The box elder is a fast-growing tree that can thrive in a variety of environments, which is likely why it has so many different names across different parts of the country.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are boxelder trees good for anything?
Yes, boxelder trees have several uses, including erosion control due to their fibrous root system and prolific seeding habit. They were also previously used in shelterbelts to reduce wind erosion and dust storms.
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