Boxelder

Boxelder

(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