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Description
The Acer Negundo Var. Californicum, commonly known as the California Box Elder, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It can grow up to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide. The tree is native to California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It has a fast growth rate and can live up to 100 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The California Box Elder has a rounded, spreading shape with a dense, symmetrical crown. The leaves are compound with 3-7 leaflets and are light green in color. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow. The flowers are small and yellow-green in color, appearing in spring. The tree produces winged fruit in the form of paired samaras.
Care Guide
The California Box Elder prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate a range of soil types and pH levels. Water deeply and regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune in the winter to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased wood. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The California Box Elder is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Leaf spot and powdery mildew are common diseases that can affect the tree. To prevent these problems, maintain good sanitation practices and provide adequate air circulation.
Habitat
The California Box Elder is native to the southwestern United States and grows in a variety of habitats, including riparian areas, woodlands, and canyons. It is often found near water sources and can tolerate some flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the California Box Elder a good shade tree?
A: Yes, the California Box Elder has a dense crown and provides good shade.
Q: Can the California Box Elder grow in sandy soil?
A: Yes, the California Box Elder can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy soil.
Q: How often should I water my California Box Elder?
A: Water deeply and regularly, especially during the first year after planting. After that, water as needed to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: When is the best time to prune my California Box Elder?
A: Prune in the winter when the tree is dormant to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased wood.
Related Plants
- Acer negundo
- Acer saccharum
- Acer rubrum
- Acer palmatum
References
- “Acer negundo var. californicum.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed on 25 May 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ACNEC
- “California Box Elder.” Arizona State University. Accessed on 25 May 2021. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailTrees.php?genus=Acer&species=negundo_var._californicum
- “Acer negundo var. californicum – California boxelder.” University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Accessed on 25 May 2021. https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/acer-negundo-var-californicum
