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American Elm

Ulmus americana

The American Elm tree has a tall trunk and a wide canopy of leaves. It’s a favorite spot for birds to make nests!

Habitat: Forests and urban areas

Appearance

The American Elm has a majestic, distinctive vase-like shape with arching branches that often form a cathedral-like canopy. Its rough, grey-brown bark develops deep ridges, and its dark green leaves are notably asymmetrical at the base, turning bright yellow in autumn.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderRosalesFamilyUlmaceaeGenusUlmus

American Elm

Interesting facts

Before disease, elm-lined streets formed magnificent 'cathedral arches' when canopies touched!

Each tiny elm seed has a papery 'wing,' helping it float far from the tree!

Its strong wood was prized for wagon wheels, resisting splitting under heavy loads!

Native Americans used the inner bark to make strong rope and even canoes!

Special abilities

American Elm can tolerate wet, poorly drained soils, allowing it to thrive in floodplains where other trees struggle.

American Elm can grow quickly, helping it reach sunlight and establish itself faster than many competing trees.

Measurements & details

Height: 20-35 m
Canopy Spread: 15-25 m
Is Edible: No
Trunk Diameter: 60-180 cm
Lifespan: 50-175 years
Fruit Type: Samara
Growth Rate: Medium
Leaf Type: Deciduous

Ecological connections

eats

Elm Leaf Beetle

Xanthogaleruca luteola

Larvae and adults feed on leaves.

eaten by

White-tailed Deer

Odocoileus virginianus

Browses on young twigs and leaves.

shelters

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Sciurus carolinensis

Builds nests and finds shelter in branches.

parasitizes

Dutch Elm Disease Fungus

Ophiostoma novo-ulmi

A fungus that causes deadly Dutch Elm Disease.

shelters

American Robin

Turdus migratorius

Often nests in its branches, seeking shelter.

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Broadleaf Tree

Discover magnificent trees that have wide, flat leaves, unlike the needles of pine trees! These are often the trees that change colors beautifully in autumn.

Fall Color

Witness the breathtaking transformation as leaves change from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold before they fall. It's a spectacular natural art show!