Origin:
Native to North America, and found from coast to coast.
Biology:
A perennial tree related to other maple trees, with growth as tall as 65 feet, often found in stream beds and low lying areas. Reproduction is from seeds, but extensive sprouting can occur from the shallow roots, creating problems in landscape. Extensive growth of seedlings also can be a nuisance. The troublesome Boxelder Bug is commonly associated with this tree as well, leading further to the problems from the presence of this tree in urban areas.
Identification:
Leaves are pinnately compound, divided into 3 to 5 large leaflets, with one a terminal leaflet. The shape of each leaflet varies from lanceolate to oblong, their margins from smooth to toothed to lobed. New twigs often tend to a purplish tint with a whitish waxy layer. The seeds are typically maple, produced as a winged pair that form at less than a 90 degree angle from each other.
Characteristicts Important to Control:
Physical removal of the tree will be required, along with treatment of the stump with a registered herbicide, and follow-up treatments of new sprouts and seedlings with a systemic herbicide.
