American Elm
ExploreTrees
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
Category
TreesRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
7
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
Ability
Flood Tolerance
American Elm can tolerate wet, poorly drained soils, allowing it to thrive in floodplains where other trees struggle.
Ability
Fast Growth
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
- 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
Deciduous plants periodically shed all their leaves, typically during autumn or dry seasons.
Broadleaf Tree
Broadleaf trees are angiosperms characterized by flat, wide leaves that are typically shed annually in temperate climates.
Fall Color
Fall color refers to the seasonal change in foliage pigmentation, primarily in deciduous plants, displaying vibrant hues.
Rapid Growing
Rapid growing plants exhibit accelerated growth rates, quickly increasing in size and biomass within a short period.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
Soft ElmWater ElmWhite Elm
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Do not pick or eat anything you find. Some plants and mushrooms can be harmful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to identify American Elm?
The easiest way to identify American Elm is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.
How tall is American Elm?
20-35 m
How wide does American Elm spread?
15-25 m
Is American Elm edible?
No
How big is American Elm?
60-180 cm
How long does American Elm live?
50-175 years
Where is American Elm usually found?
Forests and urban areas
What kind of fruit does American Elm produce?
Samara
Snap Map
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Recent Snaps
Where to spot
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District of Columbia, US
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South Carolina, US
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Connecticut, US
Downtown Seymour Historic District
You might spot Eastern Gray Squirrel, Bee, and Red Fox.
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Park30 sightings12 species
Michigan, US
Hidden Lake Gardens
You might spot Hickory Tussock Moth, Mayapple, and Winged Euonymus.
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Massachusetts, US
Medfield Rhododendrons
You might spot Pink Lady's Slipper and Great Rhododendron.
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Park30 sightings12 species
Georgia, US
Mozley Park Historic District
You might spot Eastern Gray Squirrel, Domestic Cat, and American Robin.
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