Deciduous in winter. Makes a wide, open crown with spreading branches. It develops quickly. Compound leaves consist of 3-5 leaflets. It has a superficial root system. They need to be watered frequently. Resistant to heat, cold and drought. Weak branches can be broken by wind.
Acer negundo ‘Flamingo,’ commonly known as Flamingo Boxelder or Flamingo Maple, is a cultivar of the native boxelder tree (Acer negundo) that is valued for its variegated pink and white foliage. The size of Acer negundo ‘Flamingo’ trees can vary depending on several factors, including environmental conditions and care. Here are some general size characteristics for this cultivar:
- Height: Flamingo Boxelder trees typically reach a height of 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 meters) at maturity. However, it’s important to note that the size can be influenced by factors such as soil quality, water availability, and local climate.
- Spread: The spread, or width, of Flamingo Boxelder trees can be approximately equal to their height. This means that the canopy of a mature tree can have a spread of 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 meters).
- Growth Rate: The growth rate of Flamingo Boxelder trees is generally moderate to fast, particularly when they are young and provided with adequate growing conditions. They can put on several feet of growth in a single year.
- Cultural Practices: Pruning and training can influence the shape and size of Flamingo Boxelder trees. Regular maintenance, such as selective pruning, can help manage their size and shape in landscaping.
- Climate and Location: The local climate and environmental factors, as well as soil quality and water availability, can affect the size and growth rate of these trees.
It’s important to consider the mature size of Flamingo Boxelder trees when planning their placement in your landscape, ensuring they have adequate space to reach their full dimensions without overcrowding. Proper care and maintenance can also help you manage their size and appearance.
What is the flower Acer negundo flamingo?
Acer negundo ‘Flamingo,’ commonly known as Flamingo Boxelder or Flamingo Maple, is a cultivar of the native boxelder tree (Acer negundo). However, this cultivar is primarily valued for its striking variegated foliage rather than its flowers. The variegation in the leaves of ‘Flamingo’ cultivars typically includes pink, white, and green patterns, making it an ornamental tree used for its colorful leaves.
The flowers of boxelder trees, including the Flamingo Boxelder cultivar, are typically inconspicuous and not particularly showy. They are often small, greenish-yellow to yellow in color, and arranged in clusters. The main appeal of ‘Flamingo’ Boxelder trees is their foliage, which provides visual interest due to the variegated coloring, especially during the growing season.
While the flowers of ‘Flamingo’ Boxelder trees may not be the primary feature, the variegated leaves make them an attractive choice for ornamental landscaping, providing a splash of color and interest in gardens and landscapes.
What is the description of Acer negundo?
Acer negundo, commonly known as boxelder, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to North America. It belongs to the maple family, Aceraceae. Here is a description of the typical features of Acer negundo:
- Leaves: The leaves of Acer negundo are compound, meaning that they are composed of multiple leaflets. Each leaflet is usually divided into 3 to 7 smaller, lance-shaped leaflets. The leaflets are typically serrated along the edges.
- Foliage: The foliage of boxelder trees is typically green, with some variability in leaf coloration among different varieties and individual trees. Some cultivars, like ‘Flamingo,’ exhibit variegated pink and white foliage.
- Bark: The bark of young boxelder trees is smooth and greenish-gray, gradually becoming rough and furrowed with age. It can develop a reddish tint as it matures.
- Flowers: The flowers of boxelder trees are small, inconspicuous, and greenish-yellow to yellow in color. They are arranged in clusters or small panicles.
- Seeds: Boxelder produces paired samaras or winged seeds, much like other maple species. These seeds are often referred to as “helicopters” due to their spinning motion as they fall to the ground.
- Growth Habit: Boxelder trees typically have an open and irregular crown with multiple trunks. They can grow as a single-stemmed tree but often develop multiple trunks, creating a shrubby appearance.
- Size: The size of Acer negundo can vary widely, depending on environmental conditions and care. It can grow as a small to medium-sized tree, reaching heights of 30 to 50 feet (9 to 15 meters). In some cases, it may remain a large shrub.
- Habitat: Boxelder is a fast-growing and adaptable species. It is often found in a variety of habitats, including riparian areas, floodplains, and disturbed sites. It is tolerant of wet soils and can grow near streams and rivers.
- Cultivars: Some cultivars of Acer negundo have been developed for ornamental landscaping. For example, the ‘Flamingo’ cultivar is known for its variegated pink and white foliage.
- Environmental Role: While not as highly valued for its timber as some other maples, boxelder plays an ecological role in providing habitat and food for wildlife.
Acer negundo is a versatile and adaptable species, known for its rapid growth and ability to colonize various habitats. It is often used in landscaping and urban environments for its shade and ornamental value, as well as its tolerance of diverse soil and moisture conditions.
How do you care for a flamingo Acer?
Caring for a Flamingo Acer (Acer negundo ‘Flamingo’), which is a cultivar of the native boxelder tree, involves some specific considerations to maintain its variegated pink and white foliage and promote its overall health. Here are some care guidelines for a Flamingo Acer:
- Planting Location:
- Choose a well-draining location with partial to full sunlight. Flamingo Acers thrive in full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Soil:
- Ensure the soil is well-draining and moderately fertile. Flamingo Acers can adapt to a range of soil types but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.
- Watering:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the tree’s establishment period. Adequate watering is essential to prevent stress, which can impact the variegated foliage.
- Mulching:
- Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition. Avoid piling mulch against the trunk.
- Pruning:
- Prune dead or damaged branches as needed to maintain the tree’s shape and health. Pruning can also help to encourage a fuller growth habit.
- Fertilization:
- Fertilize sparingly, if at all. Too much fertilizer can encourage excessive growth of green foliage at the expense of the variegated leaves. If necessary, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Pest and Disease Control:
- Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that may affect Acer negundo, such as aphids, scale insects, and leaf diseases. If issues arise, take appropriate measures to address them, such as using insecticidal soap or fungicides.
- Winter Protection:
- In colder climates, Flamingo Acers may benefit from winter protection measures, such as wrapping the trunk with burlap or providing windbreaks, to shield them from harsh winter conditions.
- Drought Tolerance:
- While Flamingo Acers can withstand some drought, it’s important to provide supplemental water during extended dry periods to prevent stress and leaf scorch.
- Cultural Practices:
- Avoid harsh pruning, as this can negatively affect the variegated foliage. Only prune as needed to maintain the tree’s shape and remove any non-variegated growth.
- Monitoring:
- Regularly inspect the tree for signs of stress, disease, or pests, and take prompt action to address any issues.
Flamingo Acers are prized for their attractive variegated foliage, and their care requirements are similar to those of the species (Acer negundo), with a focus on maintaining soil moisture and providing proper growing conditions to preserve the vibrant colors of the leaves.