Acer negundo Flamingo

Common Name: Flamingo Box Elder

Description: The Flamingo Box Elder (Acer negundo 'Flamingo') is a deciduous tree known for its striking variegated foliage. In spring, new leaves emerge with a vibrant pink hue, maturing to green with white or cream margins, creating a distinctive and colorful display. This cultivar typically grows to a height of 6–15 meters with a spread of 4.5–9 meters, forming a rounded canopy. It is a fast-growing tree that thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to a variety of soil types, including moist and well-drained soils. While it is tolerant of urban conditions and can withstand air pollution, it is important to note that the species is considered invasive in some regions. Additionally, the seeds of Acer negundo contain a protoxin, hypoglycin A, which has been associated with a neurological disease in horses known as seasonal pasture myopathy. Therefore, caution is advised when planting this tree in areas accessible to livestock. The Flamingo Box Elder is valued for its ornamental appeal, particularly in larger gardens and parks where its colorful foliage can be showcased.

Form:

• Tree - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 6–15 meters
• Width: 4.5–9 meters

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Greenish-yellow (not particularly showy)

Key Attributes:

• Fast-growing
• Variegated foliage
• Urban tolerant
• Ornamental appeal

Toxicity: Seeds contain hypoglycin A, which is toxic to horses and can cause seasonal pasture myopathy.

Companion Plants:

• Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
• Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
• Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
• Hosta (Hosta spp.)
• Ferns (Various species)

Note: Due to its invasive potential and toxicity to horses, it is recommended to consult local guidelines and consider site-specific conditions before planting Acer negundo 'Flamingo'.