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Description
Acer Negundo, commonly known as Boxelder, is a deciduous tree belonging to the maple family, Aceraceae. It is native to North America, where it grows in riparian areas, floodplains, and other moist habitats. This fast-growing tree can reach up to 50 feet in height and has a broad, spreading canopy. It is known for its attractive foliage, which consists of compound leaves with 3-7 leaflets that are 3-6 inches long. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before dropping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The bark of Acer Negundo is gray and smooth when young, but becomes rough and furrowed with age. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind. This tree is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are produced on separate trees. The male flowers are showier than the female flowers and are often cultivated for their ornamental value. In addition to its attractive foliage, Acer Negundo is prized for its hardiness and ability to grow in a wide range of soils and conditions.
Care Guide
Acer Negundo is a relatively low-maintenance tree, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some guidelines for caring for this tree:
Water
Water the tree deeply and regularly during the first few years after planting to help establish a strong root system. Once established, the tree is fairly drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth starts to promote healthy growth. Do not over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.
Soil
Acer Negundo prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soils, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils.
Sunlight
Acer Negundo prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will not grow as vigorously in shaded areas.
Hardiness Zones
Acer Negundo is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, making it a good choice for a wide range of climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Negundo is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by a few common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect this tree:
Pests
- Boxelder bugs
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
Diseases
- Verticillium wilt
- Anthracnose
- Leaf spot
If you notice any signs of pests or diseases on your Acer Negundo tree, consult a professional arborist for treatment options.
Habitat
Acer Negundo is native to North America, where it grows in riparian areas, floodplains, and other moist habitats. It is a fast-growing tree that can tolerate a wide range of soils and conditions, making it a good choice for landscaping and erosion control in many areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acer Negundo a good choice for landscaping?
A: Yes, Acer Negundo is a good choice for landscaping because of its attractive foliage, hardiness, and ability to grow in a wide range of soils and conditions.
Q: How fast does Acer Negundo grow?
A: Acer Negundo is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 2-3 feet per year in ideal conditions.
Q: Does Acer Negundo produce fruit?
A: Yes, Acer Negundo produces winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Q: Is Acer Negundo resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Acer Negundo is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by a few common problems. Consult a professional arborist if you notice any signs of pests or diseases on your tree.
Related Plants
- Acer saccharinum (Silver Maple)
- Acer rubrum (Red Maple)
- Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)
- Acer platanoides (Norway Maple)
References
- “Acer negundo.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c510.
- “Boxelder.” Arbor Day Foundation. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeGuide/TreeDetail.cfm?ID=10.
- “Acer negundo.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st487.
