Boxelder
acer negundo
Also known as: ["Ash-leaved Maple","Three-leaved Maple"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to North America, known for its compound leaves and winged seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer negundo |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various settings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight preferred, but tolerates some shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun, protect from harsh afternoon sun, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light, use sheer curtains for filtered light, avoid direct sun in hot climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage, amend with organic matter, avoid waterlogged soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; tolerates wide temperature range, prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C) for optimal growth.
Monitor temperature extremes, protect from frost, adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize before new growth, water before applying, flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, plastic wrap, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems, keep soil consistently moist, provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open canopy, heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/diseased wood, encourage airflow and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/diseased wood, shape plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill container; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensure even moisture to root zone, allow excess to drain, water early morning or late evening.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost, perlite, or sand to improve drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, leaf drop in cold stress, stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch around base, protect from frost, move potted plants indoors in freezing conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth slows in prolonged high heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase watering, use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use diluted fertilizer, water before/after, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly in growing season (spring/summer), avoid winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest seeds or sap from Acer negundo. Skin irritation can also occur upon contact with the sap.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of seeds or sap from Acer negundo can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcer negundo, commonly known as box elder, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Boxelder toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does the Boxelder attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is the Boxelder suitable for drought conditions?
A: Yes, it is drought tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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