The boxelder is a maple tree, also known as the ash-leaved maple (due to its leaves resembling those of ash trees), that is widely distributed across the U.S. It is currently present throughout much of Pennsylvania and is especially valuable in the state’s southeastern forests. Unlike most maples, this species has compound leaves. It can be tapped to make maple syrup, but its product is not as sweet as a sugar maple’s. The boxelder bug is commonly associated with this tree. Boxelder is not a valuable timber species.
This species was commonly used as a street tree for its rapid grow and ability to tolerate urban stress. It grows in natural areas that are pristine or disturbed. Â It can grow in riparian regions and its fibrous roots can be useful in preventing erosion.
Boxelder is a climate resilient candidate because of its ability to recover from disturbance. Its thin bark makes this species susceptible to damage from ice, wind, and fire top kill, but it can regenerate vegetatively. Boxelder can tolerate floods and drought; this will be useful in the future under a hotter and drier climate. Ice damage will likely be less of an issue as well. Â This species can exist within a variety of habitats and temperatures. Aided with strong seed dispersal and seedling establishment, boxelder may prove to be a useful species for infilling where other species die out in the future climate.
As we look to the future of our forests, we must reconcile that some endemic species may not survive in a warmer climate. Therefore, it's important for us to consider growing and planting unconventional species to fill ecological and cultural niches left empty by species that may die out.Â
This infographic series was inspired in part by a presentation given by Jehane Samaha at the 2024 Canopy Conference at Haverford College, where she explored tree species that we may see more of in Pennsylvania as the climate warms. White oak is just one example. For the two range maps, we utilized data from the Community Climate System Model, version 4.0 offered through the USDA Forest Service.
Resources:
Boxelder (Acer Negundo). Climate Change Atlas - Northern Research Station, USDA Forest Service. https://www.fs.usda.gov/nrs/atlas/tree/313
Boxelder Acer negundo. USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_acne2.pdf
Acer negundo - ash-leaved maple, Boxelder. Native Plant Trust: Go Botany. https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/acer/negundo/
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