Kuliga Trail
Boxelder
(Acer negundo)
The Boxelder is a fast-growing native maple commonly found along streams, floodplains, woodland edges, and open natural areas throughout Ohio. Unlike most maples, Boxelder has compound leaves, giving it a unique appearance compared to other trees in the maple family.
Boxelders are adaptable trees that grow quickly in disturbed or wet areas and provide food and habitat for wildlife. Their seeds are especially important for birds and squirrels.
Quick Facts
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Height: 30–60 feet
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Spread: 25–50 feet wide
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Growth Rate: Fast
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Lifespan: 60–100+ years
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Habitat: Floodplains, streambanks, woodland edges, and disturbed areas
Fun Facts
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Boxelder is the only native maple in Ohio with compound leaves
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Its seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals
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It grows quickly and often colonizes open or disturbed areas
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Boxelder bugs are commonly associated with this tree
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The tree helps stabilize streambanks and floodplain soils
Trail Challenge
Can you spot a Boxelder?
Look around the trail and try to find:
✔ Leaves made of several leaflets
✔ Hanging maple seed clusters
✔ Greenish young twigs
✔ An irregular branching structure
Bonus:
Can you find the spinning “helicopter” seeds on the tree or ground?
Why This Tree Matters
Boxelders provide:
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Food for birds and wildlife
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Shade and cooling along waterways
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Habitat for insects and pollinators
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Fast growth in recovering natural areas
They are important pioneer trees that help stabilize soils and support developing ecosystems.
Keep Exploring
Scan other trail markers to discover more native trees and how they shape the environment around you.