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Identification Clues:
This acer species exhibits opposite
branching, yet its other features differ significantly from typical maples.
Boxelders are often called 'poison ivy trees' because of their leaves resemblance
to that noxious herb. This similarity is derived from the compound
nature of the boxelder leaf. However, unlike the three-leafed poison
ivy, boxelder leaves occur opposite one another on the branch. The
double-winged samara fruit occur in clusters and are found only on the
female trees.
Distribution:
Boxelders are native in most states, except
for those on the Pacific coast.
Highlights:
This tree is often planted for erosion control
or to provide food for wildlife. The seeds are eaten by quirrels
and songbirds. The wood is soft and white, most appropriate for boxes,
hence the name. The boxelder bug, associated with this species, is
a nuisance; and therefore people avoid using boxelders for lawn landscape.
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