The box elder (Acer negundo) is a deciduous tree native to North America, and naturalized across Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and areas of South America such as Guatemala. The box elder hardiness zone is 2a to 9a. The tree can grow between 35 and 80 feet tall. It flowers in early spring and fruits in autumn. The box elder provides food and shelter for a diversity of wildlife. The wildlife party you’ll be inviting to your garden is a good one, be prepared for something resembling a cake and tinsel. The tree is a choice host for the rosy maple moth (Dryocampa rubicunda) to lay its larvae. The gorgeous moth creature will even visit you in suburbia if you plant this tree right. Birds such as sparrows, mockingbirds, chickadees, robins, blue jays, and the Evening Grosbeak feed on and from the box elder tree. Moreover, the tree provides sustenance and shelter for squirrels, rabbits, and deer. Indigenous and other smart people work with the tree to harvest its sweet syrup, and its wood for ceremonial incense and woodcarving crafts. The tree requires at least six hours of direct sunlight to thrive, and it prefers moist, well-draining soil. In the summer, this fast-growing tree will offer you ample shade. At Portland Plant Paradise, we offer a free consult with each purchase, and we look forward to speaking with you more about your beautiful box elder. This offer is for one organic 12 inch organic rooted sapling. Total price is $50. Free shipping. Please know that we do not mail out to PO Boxes without explicit customer permission in writing.