Box Elder
Acer negundo
The Box Elder is a medium-sized, fast-growing deciduous tree native to North America. It is unique among maples for having pinnately compound leaves and being strictly dioecious. In many parts of Europe and Asia, it is considered an invasive species that thrives in riparian zones and disturbed urban areas. Its ability to tolerate various soil conditions and rapid growth allows it to outcompete native vegetation in floodplain ecosystems.
Details
Oxygen production
Moderate oxygen production via photosynthesis during the growing season.
Habitat function
Provides habitat for tree-nesting birds and food for insects (pollen) in early spring.
Nutrient uptake
High uptake of nitrogen and phosphorus from soil water.
Food source for
Seed-eating birds (e.g., Hawfinch), small mammals, bees (pollen source).
Human use
Ornamental tree in parks, wood for turning or pulp, occasional maple syrup production.
Ecology
Ecological role
Pioneer species that quickly closes canopy gaps; provides nesting sites for birds but can reduce biodiversity in floodplains through shading and competition.
Natural predators
Various insect larvae (e.g., longhorn beetles), fungal infections (e.g., Verticillium wilt).
Competitor species
Native willows (Salix spp.) and poplars (Populus spp.) in softwood riparian forests.
Ecosystem service
Rapid greening of urban spaces, erosion control on banks, carbon sequestration.
Threats
No significant threats; considered a threat itself to sensitive ecosystems.
Scientific profile
Profile
Protection & threats
Main threats
Not threatened in its natural range. In Europe, the species is subject to management measures to curb its spread in nature reserves.