Boxelder Maple (Acer negundo)

Boxelder Maple

Acer negundo

Its compound leaves mimic ash trees, a hardy urban survivor. Deciduous tree; common names: boxelder, ash-leaved maple.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of urban pollution and compacted soil
💧
Watering Water deeply during dry spells; drought-tolerant once established
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to extreme cold; tolerant of hot summer temperatures in temperate regions
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, pinnately compound with 3–7 leaflets; serrated margins, light green turning yellow in fall
  • Flower: Dioecious; small, greenish-yellow clusters (male flowers pendulous, female upright)
  • Stem/Bark: Young stems green, turning gray-brown with shallow furrows as mature
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply every 7–10 days during dry periods

Fertilization

Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent weak, breakable growth

Eggshell powder top-dressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around base in spring; water in lightly to release nutrients
Pruning
  • Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter
  • Thin crowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
  • Shape young trees to establish a strong central leader; avoid heavy pruning in summer
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Windbreak, shade tree, wildlife habitat (seeds feed native birds)