Boxelder

General 
Scientific Name: Acer negundo 
Family: Sapindaceae (Soapberry) 
Hardiness: Zone 2 
Leaves: Deciduous 
Plant Type: Tree 

Growth 
Rate: Fast 
Mature Height: >45’ 
Longevity: Long 
Power Line: No 

Ornamental 
Flowers: Inconspicuous 
Fruit: Tan Samara 
Fall Color: Yellow

A relatively fast-growing, but potentially long-lived, medium-to-tall tree of irregular form. Boxelder trees are found in river bottoms, ravines and hillsides. Foliage is very susceptible to phenoxy herbicides. Also called Manitoba maple or ash-leaved maple. The largest tree in North Dakota is 61 feet tall with a canopy spread of 63 feet.

Light: Full sun to part shade. 
Water: Medium to high. 
Soil: Adaptable to a wide range.

The name boxelder (sometimes box elder) is in reference to a use of the wood for making crates and boxes and the supposed similarity of the leaves to those of elder (Sambucus). Leaves also resemble those of some ashes, hence the additional common name of ash-leaved maple. Leaves have 3-5 leaflets and can be confused with poison ivy.

Photo Credit:

Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester

Boxelder

Photo Credit:

Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester

Boxelder

Photo Credit:

Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester

Boxelder