Box Elder
Acer negundo
A fast-growing tree featuring compound leaves typically composed of three to seven leaflets, with bright green coloration during the growing season.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Water
- Moderate water needs; drought tolerant once established. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions.
- Growth
- Perennial deciduous tree with a moderate to fast growth rate, reaching mature heights of 30 to 50 feet with a spreading crown.
Care instructions
Provide full sun to partial shade with regular watering during establishment. Adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering
Moderate water needs; drought tolerant once established. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Soil
Adaptable to various soil types including clay, loam, and sand, provided there is adequate drainage. Prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH range.
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 2 through 9.
Growth habit
Perennial deciduous tree with a moderate to fast growth rate, reaching mature heights of 30 to 50 feet with a spreading crown.
Bloom season
Flowers in spring before the leaves fully emerge, producing small, greenish clusters.
Propagation
Propagated primarily through seeds or softwood cuttings taken in late spring.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to wind damage due to weak wood, aphids, scale insects, and various leaf spot fungal diseases.
Similar species
Some compound-leaved ash species or other maples, distinguished primarily by twig characteristics and opposite branching patterns.