elms
ExplorePlants
elms
Ulmus
Elms are tall trees with wide, spreading branches and beautiful leaves. They provide shade and homes for many birds and insects. Elms are often found in parks and along streets.
Habitat: Urban areas
Appearance
The elms has distinctive saw-toothed leaves, often asymmetrical at the base, and deeply furrowed, grayish-brown bark. Its majestic vase-like or spreading canopy forms a grand, deciduous shade tree.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderRosalesFamilyUlmaceaeGenusUlmus
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Elm wood is super tough, making it great for things like furniture and even boat parts!
Elms have been around for a very long time, with fossils dating back millions of years!
Many towns used to plant elms all along their streets for amazing shade!
The unique shape of some elm tree canopies was once compared to a grand fountain.
Special abilities
Ability
Flying Seeds
Elms produce wafer-thin, winged seeds called samaras that float on the wind to spread far and wide, helping them reproduce.
Ability
Tough Roots
Elms have strong, fibrous roots that help them withstand dry periods, allowing them to find water deep underground to survive.
Ability
Speedy Sprout
Many elm species can grow quite quickly when young, helping them compete for sunlight in forests to thrive.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 2000-4000 cm
- Spread
- 1000-2000 cm
- Flower Size
- 0.2-0.5 cm
- Bloom Season
- Early spring
- Edible
- Yes
- Toxicity
- None
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Wind
Ecological connections
depends on
European elm bark beetle
Scolytus multistriatus
Spreads deadly Dutch Elm Disease to elms.
eats
elm leaf beetle
Pyrrhalta luteola
Larvae and adults chew holes in elm leaves.
shelters
eastern gray squirrel
Sciurus carolinensis
Builds nests and finds cover in elm branches.
Traits
Deciduous
Deciduous plants periodically shed all their leaves, typically during autumn or dry seasons.
Shade Tolerant
Shade tolerant plants are adapted to grow and thrive in areas with low light levels, requiring less direct sunlight.
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.
Timber
Timber refers to wood that has been prepared for use in building and carpentry.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Stay safe by not climbing too high in trees and watch for falling branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is elms?
2000-4000 cm
How wide does elms spread?
1000-2000 cm
How big are the flowers on elms?
0.2-0.5 cm
When does elms bloom?
Early spring
Is elms edible?
Yes
Is elms toxic?
None
What is elms's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is elms pollinated?
Wind
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