Also known as Ash-Leaf Maple · Ash-Leaved Maple · Ashleaf Maple
Box elder (Acer negundo) is a fast-growing deciduous tree with compound leaves. It is adaptable to various conditions and can be invasive in some regions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth and form, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water deeply during dry periods, especially for young trees. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Adaptable
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, from very cold winters to hot summers. Very adaptable.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Over-fertilization can cause weak growth.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Box elder trees are drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply during prolonged dry spells, especially young trees. Avoid waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
Regular watering is more important during their first year after planting to encourage a strong root system.
Prune box elders to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This can be done anytime, but late winter or early spring is ideal before new growth begins. Reduce the size or shape the tree as needed.
Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stimulate excessive sap flow.
Box elders are easily propagated from seeds, which should be sown in the fall or stratified before spring sowing. They also root readily from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or summer.
Grafting can be used for specific cultivars.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established box elder trees grown in the ground. For container-grown specimens, repot every 2-3 years in spring, moving to a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix to provide new nutrients and space for root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Box Elder (Acer negundo)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
| Species | Acer negundo |
Similar in genus Acer
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
