Boxelder is an aggressive invader of fallow fields and roadside ditches. Sometimes considered a race of sugar maple, black maple leaves are darker green and shinier. Twigs tend to be a bit stouter and the seeds proportionately larger in the helicopters. Resembles sugar maple but twigs are distinctly purple and terminal buds larger. Leaves also sometimes have a purple color to them.
Helicopters are a little smaller.
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