Box Elder Trees: A Fast-Growing, Ecological Powerhouse for Restoration and Shade
Box Elder Trees (Acer negundo) are among the most adaptable native maples in North America. At TN Nursery, they remain a top choice for customers seeking fast shade, erosion control, or large-scale ecological restoration. Since 1959, TN Nursery has supplied native plants to landmark locations such as Arlington National Cemetery and the Washington Monument, strengthening our long-standing authority and hands-on experience in growing dependable native trees.
Fast Growth and Exceptional Adaptability
They are one of the best trees for anyone searching for fast-growing shade trees, native maples, or species that thrive in wet soils. They excel in conditions where many trees fail, adapting easily to clay, sandy loam, floodplain soils, and other challenging environments. Their rapid growth benefits homeowners who want shade quickly, as well as conservation professionals focused on streambank stabilization and riparian restoration.
Their ability to anchor soil makes them ideal for erosion control, creating wildlife corridors, and promoting biodiversity in open or degraded landscapes. This adaptability explains why restoration teams frequently choose them for high-impact ecological projects.
Ecological Value and Landscape Benefits
They also offer considerable ecological value. Their seeds feed finches and other native birds, their canopy shelters beneficial insects, and their resilience makes them a cornerstone species in naturalized plantings. While sometimes overshadowed by more ornamental maple species, They are actual survivors-tolerating drought, periodic flooding, and fluctuating temperatures with ease.
This reliability is why professionals and homeowners alike choose TN Nursery's grower-direct, bare-root trees for strong establishment and long-term landscape stability.
TN Nursery's Expertise in Native Trees
With over 65 years of horticultural experience, TN Nursery remains a trusted source of native trees for gardeners, conservationists, and land managers nationwide. Whether your goal is shade, erosion control, or environmental restoration, they deliver rapid growth, native resilience, and lasting ecological benefits.
Our Box Elder Trees are grown with the same care and expertise that have guided TN Nursery for generations-ensuring you receive strong, healthy, and environmentally beneficial native trees that thrive for years to come.
Are Box Elder Trees suitable for fast shade?
A: Yes. They are one of the fastest-growing native maples in North America, often chosen by TN Nursery customers who want shade quickly. Their rapid growth makes them ideal for new properties, large yards, and restoration sites that require fast canopy coverage.
Q: Do Box Elder Trees grow well in wet soil?
A: Absolutely. Box Elders thrive in floodplain soils, streambanks, clay, and other moisture-rich locations. Their strong root systems make them an excellent choice for erosion control and riparian restoration projects.
Q: What makes Box Elder Trees valuable for wildlife?
A: They support a wide range of wildlife. Their seeds feed finches and small native birds, their canopy shelters beneficial insects, and their fast growth helps create early-successional habitat in naturalized landscapes.
Q: Are Box Elder Trees easy to grow for beginners?
A: Yes. They are extremely beginner-friendly thanks to their resilience. They tolerate drought, flooding, poor soil conditions, and temperature fluctuations. TN Nursery ships them bare-root for quick establishment, making them a low-maintenance option for new gardeners.
Q: What are the best uses for Box Elder Trees in landscaping?
A: They are most commonly used for fast shade, erosion control, wildlife habitat, streambank stabilization, and large-scale ecological restoration. Their adaptability makes them useful in both residential and professional conservation settings.
Q: How big do Box Elder Trees get?
A: They typically reach 30-50 feet at maturity, depending on soil and growing conditions. Their fast growth allows them to develop a full canopy much sooner than many other native tree species.
Q: Are Box Elder Trees native to the United States?
A: Yes. They are native across much of North America and are considered one of the most adaptable native maples. TN Nursery specializes in supplying native trees, such as this tree, for sustainable landscaping and restoration efforts.
Q: How does TN Nursery grow its Box Elder Trees?
A: TN Nursery grows these trees from healthy, field-grown stock using decades of propagation expertise. Our grower-direct approach ensures strong bare-root trees that establish quickly and naturally adapt to various environments.
Customer Reviews
I purchased Miami Pink Crepe Myrtle’s and Ginko Biloba trees . They were shipped promptly to FL and planted immediately. They are just coming out of dormancy now. Buds a pippin’ !! Extremely satisfied!
What are the pros and cons of Red Sunset Maple?
Red Sunset Maple has many pros, including brilliant red fall color, fast growth, and strong adaptability. It thrives in a variety of soils and provides excellent shade for yards and landscapes. Its beauty and reliability make it a favorite choice for homeowners and landscapers alike.
How big does a Red Sunset Maple grow?
A Red Sunset Maple typically grows 40 to 60 feet tall with a rounded, symmetrical canopy. Its strong branches and vibrant foliage make it a standout in any landscape. It provides excellent shade and stunning fall color year after year.
What is the difference between red maple and Red Sunset Maple?
Red Sunset Maple is a cultivated variety of the red maple known for its brighter fall color and stronger branching. It turns vivid shades of orange and red earlier in the season than standard red maples. Both are hardy, fast-growing trees, but Red Sunset offers exceptional beauty and uniform shape.
Exposure
Box Elder Trees are pest and disease resistant
Height at Maturity
Over 25 Feet
Usage
Fast Growing
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
UPS
Planting Zones
3-8
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Trees
Bare root trees are shipped dormant without soil, making them lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to plant during the cool months of early spring or fall. To begin, soak the roots in a bucket of water for 4–6 hours before planting to rehydrate them. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil and ample space for the tree’s mature size.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the spread of the roots and deep enough to keep the root flare (where the roots begin to spread from the trunk) at or slightly above ground level. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole, spread the roots evenly over it, backfill with native soil, and gently tamp down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.
Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) during the first growing season, and apply mulch around the base—avoiding direct contact with the trunk—to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Stake the tree if necessary, and prune only to remove dead or damaged branches. With proper care, your bare root tree will establish quickly and grow strong for years to come.
