124978 Ashleaf Maple (Box Elder) Acer negundo (Aceraceae) HEIGHT to 20m
Small but vigorous deciduous tree with numerous shoots growing from bole and main branches. BARK Smooth in young trees, replaced by darker, shallowly fissured bark in older trees. BRANCHES With green shoots and small buds that have only 2 whitish scales. LEAVES Pinnate, to 15cm long with 3 or sometimes up to 7 irregularly toothed oval leaflets. REPRODUCTIVE PARTS Male and female flowers occur separately, opening in March before leaves. Petals are absent; male flowers are greenish with prominent red anthers, and female flowers are greenish-yellow and pendent. Brown fruits are about 2cm long with wings slightly spreading, remaining on tree after leaves have fallen. STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION Native of E North America, commonly planted as an ornamental tree, and sometimes for shelter; sometimes naturalised.
