Boxelder Acer negundo

Boxelder is a deciduous tree in the maple family (Sapindaceae) and has the greatest range of all the maples. In North Carolina, it grows from the upper coastal plain into the piedmont and mountain regions. Genus name is the Latin name for a maple tree.

 The tree grows 30-50 feet tall and wide with an irregular rounded form. Boxelder tolerates most levels of light except shade, prefers moist locations, often found along waterways, flood plains and wooded areas

It is dioecious, having both male and female trees. The male trees are more prized because they are less messy.  It is fast-growing and has weak, brittle wood.   Its leaves are pinnately compound and there are often 3 leaflets present resembling poison ivy. It is relatively short-lived and can be weedy.  It has little commercial value other than as a pulp tree.

This tree can be used in naturalized areas along lakes and streams. The sap can be collected for syrup.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Boxelder bugs eat seeds on female trees but cause little other damage; borers.  Anthracnose, powdery mildew, and canker.  Weak branches break in high wind or heavy snow load.  See potential insect and disease problem fact sheets to the left.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common maple diseases and insect pests. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Opposite, odd-pinnately compound leaves with 3-5 leaflets (different than other maples)
• 2-4 inches long, lobed, serrated leaves
• Bright green leaves
• 30-50' deciduous tree, spread usually equal to height. 

VIDEO created by Grant L. Thompson for “Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines for Landscaping” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State University.