Boxelder

Description
Boxelder is a deciduous tree in the Sapindaceae (soapberry) family and has the greatest range of all the maples. It is dioecious, having both male and female trees; the male trees are more prized because they are less messy. It is fast growing so has weak, brittle wood. Its leaves are pinnately compound and there are often 3 leaflets present resembling poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). Boxelder tolerates most levels of light except shade, prefers moist locations, often found along waterways, flood plains and wooded areas. It is relatively short-lived and can be weedy. It has little commercial value other than as a pulp tree.

Family name Sapindaceae (formerly Aceraceae)

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Boxelder bugs eat seeds on female trees but cause little other damage; borers. Anthracnose, powdery mildew, and canker. Weak branches break in high wind or heavy snow load. See potential insect and disease problem fact sheets to the left.

Quick ID Hints:

Opposite, odd-pinnately compound leaves with 3-5 leaflets (different than other maples)
2-4 inches long, lobed, serrated leaves
Bright green leaves
30-50′ deciduous tree, spread usually equal to height.