Boxelder is a kind of maple tree whose leaves differ from those of other maples. Boxelders have compound leaves with three to seven blades. Other maples have simple leaves that consist of only one blade. Boxelders are medium-sized trees and may grow to 70 feet (21 meters) tall. They do not make good shade trees because the wood is weak and the branches break off easily. Boxelders are found throughout North America, usually in lowland areas and along streams. See also Boxelder bug ; Maple (Boxelder) .
