Manitoba Maple
848 Saskatchewan Cres. East
Commonly named Manitoba Maple or Boxelder, this Acer negundo has phenomenal lateral branches that extend over most of the home's front yard. It is a fine example of the natural form that trees can develop if left to their own devices, albeit with some support for long low limbs! Saskatoon has other really unique character Manitoba Maples like this one.
The Manitoba Maple is native to North America and has been introduced and has naturalized in Europe, China and Australia. Here in Saskatchewan it once was popular for planting on streets and in parks. The red stained grain of the wood makes it desired by woodworkers — particularly the burls that can appear on some trunks (view tree at alternate location). Indigenous peoples of western North America used Manitoba Maple for multiple purposes, including tools,medicines, ceremonial objects, incense, food, and even flutes. They made syrup from the sap, which is still done today by First Nations and Metis peoples in Saskatchewan. The Manitoba maple grows quickly but has a fairly short life span of about 60 years. Female trees produce many seeds.
Alternate location: 1112 Ave. C North