Acer negundo californicum grows throughout much of California up to an elevation of
6000 feet. The California Box Elder is often found along rivers and streams, and also
be found where the groundwater can be reached by its extensive root system. A well
sited tree is quite drought tolerant once established. Acer negundo californicum is
a fairly fast growing tree typically to 30 feet tall and wide, though it can grow
significantly larger in a wind protected location. The California Box Elder usually
is multi-trunked and can become quite bushy if it is not thinned. The trees will
frequently lose branches if not thinned and shaped. The trunk of the California Box
Elder can get to 3 feet in diameter. Acer negundo californicum is often found mixed
with oaks, willows, and cottonwoods in the riparian zone along rivers and is typically
one of the smaller trees in this mix. The species, Acer negundo, is native to much of
North America. Acer negundo has small flowers in the Spring and winged fruit in the Fall.
A brisk Fall breeze can send the seeds spinning in the breeze like miniature helicopters,
often landing several 100 feet from the tree. There are a number of popular cultivated
varieties.
High resolution images
of Acer negundo californicum are available
