ulmus
( uhl - muss )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus, commonly called Elm, includes deciduous and semi-evergreen trees that need full sun and regular water. They are known for their laundry list of health issues, though their previous reputations as wonderful shade trees have led to them still being planted and hybridized.
|
ulmus Species and Varietals
The best growing zones for Elm Trees vary depending on the species; For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Ulmus americana (American Elm) This species is deciduous is best in zones 1-11 and 14-21 and is native to eastern North America. These trees quickly reach 100 feet tall and equal or greater width. Main branches are upright, and secondary branches are somewhat pendulous. Leaves are dark green, turning shades of yellow in the fall. Seeds are pale green and can make a mess. Disease resistant varieties of this species include 'Princeton' (upright to 65 feet tall), 'Valley Forge' (to 70 feet tall), and 'Jefferson' (vase-shaped to 70 feet tall). |
Ulmus glabra (Scotch Elm) This species is deciduous and native to Europe, growing well in zones 2-11 and 14-21. They can reach 120 feet tall with an upright habit and a spread of 80 feet. Leaves are toothed. Variety 'Camperdown' (Camperdown Elm) reaches 10-20 feet tall and wide, with weeping branches that reach the ground, forming a shade tent. |
Ulmus Hybrid Varieties
This group of Elm Trees grow well in zones 2-9 and 14-21, and vary in size, shape and disease resistance. For more information on these varieties, read the descriptions below.
This group of Elm Trees grow well in zones 2-9 and 14-21, and vary in size, shape and disease resistance. For more information on these varieties, read the descriptions below.
Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese Elm, Chinese Evergreen Elm) This species can be either deciduous or semi-evergreen, and grows well in zones 3-24. It is native to Japan, Korea and China and reaches 40-60 feet tall and 50-70 feet wide. These trees generally have an open, arching habit with weeping branchlets. Leaves are leathery and dark green, and these trees produce round fruit in fall. |
Ulmus pumila (Siberian Elm) This deciduous species does well in zones A1-A3, 1-11 and 14-21, and is native to China and Russia. These trees can reach 50 feet tall and 40 feet wide, and have smooth, dark green leaves. Used as an erosion-control plant, as a screen or windbreak. This tree produces winged, papery seeds with a wide dispersal zone and is resistant to Dutch Elm Disease. This species can endure cold, heat, arid conditions and poor soil quality. |
Ulmus wilsoniana 'Prospector' This species is native to zones 3-9 and 14-21, and is native to western areas of China. It reaches 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide, with orange-red new leaves that mature to deep green and turn yellow in autumn. This species is resistant to Dutch Elm Disease and to Elm Leaf Beetles. |
Caring for and pruning ulmus Trees
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
|
Propagating camellias
|
Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 642 - 643, Ulmus (Elm)
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!