Box elder - Acer negundo (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Box elder

Also known as: Maple ash, Manitoba maple

Box elder (Acer negundo) is a type of maple tree native to North America, but which is now found throughout the world. It is a hardy, medium-to-large tree that grows quickly and has a relatively short lifespan of up to 60 years. Older trees are prone to storm damage. Box elder wood is relatively flimsy because the tree grows so fast.

Scientific classification

Species

Box elder (Acer negundo)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

10 m to 25 m

Plant Height

8 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

10 cm to 20 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green, Gold

Fruit Color

Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Box elder

Attributes of Box elder

Growth Rate

Given its rapid growth rate, during Spring and Summer, the box elder can exhibit remarkable progress in height, leaf production, and bud formation. This speed allows it to quickly colonize areas, sometimes appearing like an opportunistic species. However, the accelerated rate often results in weaker, more susceptible wooded structures.

Distribution of Box elder

Distribution Map

Box elder is native to central and eastern North America, from northern Canada to Guatemala. It grows in lowland forests, edge habitats, and disturbed areas. Box elder has been introduced worldwide and has been listed as invasive in several US states, in addition to many countries in Europe and Oceania.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Lowland sites along rivers, streams, ponds, seasonally flooded flats

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It has strong resistance to harmful gases.

Economic Value

Its wood is milky white, compact, light and soft, with fine texture and luster. It can be used as furniture, joinery and pulp material.

Garden Use

Box elder is considered a good variety for planting in gardens and yards, and can also be suitable for planting along streets. It has been commonly used as a landscaping tree in suburban neighborhoods for its dense shade, and pairs well with other maples.

Symbolism

Persistence, warmth, sincerity

Interesting Facts

Boxelder and maple trees are very similar. They are green in summer and their leaves turn red in autumn and winter. But there is a saying that can help distinguish the two: "Three-lobed leaf maple and five-leaf boxelder". Those who gather boxelder leaves under the boxelder tree will be lucky.

Name Story

Boxelder maple: It is often called the boxelder maple. In fact, the name boxelder is actually composed of the genus names, buxus and sambucus, meaning boxwood and elder respectively. As its white wood is very similar to the boxwood plant, and its leaves are similar to most species within the sambucus genus, it is thus called the boxelder maple.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Box elder, including the following common varieties :

Box elder 'Flamingo'

Quickly Identify Box elder

Opposite odd-pinnately compound leaves with 3-5 bright green leaflets, unique among maples.

Male flowers with small, yellow-green corymbs blooming early in March-April.

Fruit clusters of winged achenes forming pairs at a 60-degree angle, maturing to brown.

Stem with color-changing hues, waxy coating, prominent leaf scars, and whitish hairy buds.

Trunk bark with flat-topped ridges, interlocking furrows, and grey-brown color transitioning to dark brown.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Box elder

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Box elder flourishes in moist, riparian-like conditions, requiring consistent moisture but can endure brief dryness. Water every 1-2 weeks, ensuring soil remains hydrated but not oversaturated. Primarily grown outdoors, box elder benefits from mulching to retain moisture and replicate its natural habitat.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, box elder requires balanced fertilizer in spring and high nitrogen in fall, applying once annually. Avoid over-fertilization by following package instructions based on the tree's size. Adjust fertilizer type with seasonal growth stages and apply at the drip line to enhance nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Box elder is a fast-growing tree with compound leaves, thriving in various conditions. Prune in early spring, removing dead or crowded branches to enhance airflow and light. This practice strengthens the plant, improving its health and reducing pest and disease risks.

Propagation: Box elder is a deciduous tree that can be propagated using softwood cuttings from late spring. Use healthy tips, dip in rooting hormone, and place in well-draining medium. Keep cuttings moist and in indirect light, as roots may take several weeks to develop.

Repotting: For box elder, use a large pot and repot every 2-3 years in early spring. A spacious container supports health, and post-repotting care should involve regular watering and providing shade for recovery. Follow these tips to ensure a thriving box elder.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Box elder

Attributes of Box elder

Distribution of Box elder

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Box elder

Care Guide for Box elder

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases