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.   It is dioecious, having both male and female trees; the male trees are more prized because they are less messy.  It is fast growing so has weak, brittle wood.   Its leaves are pinnately compound and there are often 3 leaflets present resembling poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans).  Boxelder tolerates most levels of light except shade, prefers moist locations, often found along waterways, flood plains and wooded areas.  It is relatively short-lived, can be weedy.  It has little commercial value other than as a pulp tree.

Family name Sapindaceae (formerly Aceraceae)

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.