
(Acer negundo)
The Maple Family (Aceraceae)
Boxelder is a small to medium-sized tree with a short trunk, widely spreading branches and light green foliage. It has opposite, compound poison-ivy like leaves with three to seven leaflets. A hardy, fast-growing tree that can survive dry and extremely cold conditions.
Habitat:
Locally found growing in deep, moist soils on lakes, rivers and swamps, but also grows in the dry areas of the
west and the Great Plains.
Interesting Facts:
The Plains Indians used the sugary sap as syrup.
Fruit:
The female plant produces pairs of winged seeds called samaras.
Flower:
Found on separate plants, the male and female flowers hang in clusters and are without petals.
Wildlife value:
Birds and small rodents eat the seed. Butterflies and moths drink the nectar and the leaves are a larval food for the Cercropia Silkmoth. Honey bees consume the nectar and pollen.
Fruit

Leaf type:
Compound


Tree dimensions:

Leaf length: 6.00-15.00 inches
Tree height: 30.00-50.00 feet
PDF link:
Where to find Boxelder on the Louisiana State Arboretum Trails:
WET - Wetland Trail 1.0
Refer to our Live Map to locate this species and its interpretative signage on the trail system.