Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Pinnately compound, typically trifoliate or with 3-5 leaflets; deciduous
Shape
Ovate to lanceolate leaflets with uneven or lobed margins, typical leaflets range from ovate to elliptic
Margin
Coarsely serrate, toothed, and sometimes shallowly lobed
Arrangement
Opposite arrangement on the twig
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and clearly visible, parallel secondary lateral veins
Key Features
Opposite compound leaves with 3 to 5 leaflets (unlike most maples which have simple leaves), green twigs often with a whitish bloom, and distinct winged samaras
Description
Boxelder is a fast-growing, medium-sized tree known for being one of the few maples with compound leaves. It features pale gray bark that becomes furrowed with age, small inconspicuous greenish flowers in spring, and paired winged seeds (samaras) that mature in autumn
Habitat
Found widely along streams, rivers, floodplains, and disturbed moist soils, highly adaptable to various moisture and sun conditions
Native Range
Native to North America, widely distributed across the United States and Canada, and introduced globally as an invasive or ornamental tree