New Mexico Plants: Soapberry Family

(Sapindaceae)

 

Photos are organized by genus and species. Hover over a photo series to control the images.


Bigtooth Maple (Acer grandidentatum)

The biggest concentration of Bigtooth Maple in the Albuquerque area is at the Fourth of July Canyon campground and on the slopes above. Each fall, many Burqueños make the pilgrimage to see the best fall colors around. For a hike that takes in those colors, click here.

 

Box Elder (Acer negundo)

Look for a three-part, toothed leaf. In the fall, look for the two-winged seeds characteristic of maples. For a hike that takes you to a stand of Box Elders, click here.

 

Golden Rain-Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata)

Golden rain-trees are popular plantings in Albuquerque (and around the world) thanks to their showy flowers, striking fruit, and thick, shapely canopies. The complicated scalloping of the edges of the compound leaves will help with the ID. A few have escaped, hence their inclusion in the New Mexico Wildflowers app (and here).