Acer negundo - Box elder

Acer negundo, known as an box elder, is a summer green deciduous tree from the family of soap tree plants (Sapindaceae). Originally native to North America, this species has spread worldwide through introduction and overgrown. Acer negundo is characterized by its high adaptability and rapid growth rate, which makes it a frequent component of urban and periurban ecosystems.

Morphology and appearance

Acer negundo usually reaches a height of 10 to 20 meters, in exceptional cases up to 25 meters. The tree often has several tribes and a wide, irregular crown. The bark is gray to light brown, smooth at a young age and becomes cracked and rough with increasing age.

In contrast to most other maple species, Acer negundo has unpaired paired leaves. These consist of three to seven leaflets that are 5 to 10 centimeters long. The leaves are mostly green, but colorful or yellowish in some cultivars. In autumn, the tree shows a modest yellow to brown leaf coloring.

The flowers of Acer negundo appear early in spring, mostly in front of the leaf output, between March and May. The species is two -house (diocese), Which means that male and female flowers occur on separate individuals. The flowers are inconspicuous, greenish yellow and hang in grape-shaped inflorescences. After pollination, the characteristic winged nut fruits (Samara) develop, which are arranged in pairs and enable efficient wind spread.

Distribution and habitat

The natural distribution area of ​​Acer negundo extends over large parts of North America, from Canada to Mexico. The species prefers moist locations such as river banks, floodplain forests and moist prairies, but can also grow on drier or disturbed soils.

Due to its adaptability, Acer negundo was introduced in many regions of Europe, Asia and South America and has often established itself as an invasive way. The tree thrives on nutrient -poor soils, in urban areas as well as on the side of the road and in brache.

Ecological importance

Acer negundo is a type of pioneer that quickly colonizes disturbed habitats. Its seeds and leaves offer food for a variety of animals, including birds, insects and small mammals. However, the species is often viewed critically, since it can displace native vegetation in the regions introduced.

The fast growth rate and the production of large amounts of seeds contribute to the spread. The dense shading by Acer negundo can hinder the growth of undergrowth, which reduces biodiversity. Nevertheless, the species in urban areas has an important function as a shadow donor and erosion protection.

Use and cultural importance

Due to its robustness, Acer negundo is often used in urban greenery, for example in parks or along streets. In traditional use, the wood, which is soft and light, was used for simple woodwork. However, it is less valuable than that of other maple species.

In agriculture, Acer negundo was planted as a wind protection hedge or to stabilize bank zones. Some cultivars, such as 'Flamingo' with pink white panicked leaves, are also popular in garden design.

However, the species is increasingly critically seen due to its invasive properties. In many regions, measures are taken to contain their spread and protect the biodiversity of local ecosystems. Despite these challenges, Acer negundo remains a remarkable way that deserves attention due to its adaptability and ecological role.