Leaf Identification

The leaves of the Boxelder Maple are odd-pinnately compound with 3-5 leaflets, rarely 7 (when it only has 3 leaflets, it is called trifoliate). The leaflet shape is very variable, but they tend to be lanceolate to ovate. The margin is serrated to lobed, and the venation is pinnate and reticulate. The leaflets are 2″ to 4″ long and has a hairy (pubescent) underside. The leaf arrangement is opposite.

Twig and Bud Identification

The twigs of the the Boxelder Maple are usually green to greenish-purple. The leaf scars meet in raised points and are often covered in glaucous blooms (waxy coating that is easily rubbed off). The buds are white and hairy with many bud scales. It has multiple buds at each terminal.

Bark Identification

Young Boxelder Maple’s have warty bark. As it ages, it develops shallow interlacing ridges.

Fruit Identification

The fruit of the Boxelder Maple are two-winged samaras with around 60 degrees between the wings. They are about 1″ to 1 1/2″ long and form in drooping clusters. Immature fruit are greenish-yellow, but as it matures, it turns brown.

Flower Identification

The Boxelder Maple is dioecious. Both the male and female flower look virtually the same, but the male flower tends to be yellow-green while the female flowers tend to be more reddish-green.

‘Sensation’ Identification

The ‘Sensation’ cultivar of the Boxelder Maple has a much brighter display of leaf color during the fall. This tree’s leaves normally change to a dull yellow during the fall, but this cultivar changes them to a bright red and orange.