A large mature tree with a thick trunk and dense green foliage stands in a grassy field, with a dirt path and wooden fence visible in the background under a pale blue sky.

American Elm Tree

1-2ft
$41.95
$41.95
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A large mature tree with a thick trunk and dense green foliage stands in a grassy field, with a dirt path and wooden fence visible in the background under a pale blue sky.
  • A large mature tree with a thick trunk and dense green foliage stands in a grassy field, with a dirt path and wooden fence visible in the background under a pale blue sky.
  • Close-up of bright green leaves on a branch with a soft, blurred natural background.
  • Plant size guide showing different plant heights with corresponding measurements.
  • A large, leafy green tree stands in the center of a sunlit urban plaza, surrounded by brick buildings, benches, planters, and a few small pedestrians. The scene is captured in warm late-day light with strong shadows and clear sky.
  • A large mature tree with a thick trunk and dense green foliage stands in a grassy field, with a dirt path and wooden fence visible in the background under a pale blue sky.
  • Close-up of bright green leaves on a branch with a soft, blurred natural background.
  • Plant size guide showing different plant heights with corresponding measurements.
  • A large, leafy green tree stands in the center of a sunlit urban plaza, surrounded by brick buildings, benches, planters, and a few small pedestrians. The scene is captured in warm late-day light with strong shadows and clear sky.
American Elm Tree

American Elm Tree

$41.95
$41.95
Size

Ulmus americana

The American Elm is a majestic, long-lived deciduous tree renowned for its graceful, vase-like canopy and sweeping arching branches that create a magnificent natural cathedral overhead. Historically celebrated as the quintessential street tree, this native giant transitions effortlessly through the seasons, offering a grand structural presence to any landscape.

In early spring, before its leaves fully emerge, it produces subtle clusters of reddish-green flowers that welcome the new season. By late spring, winged seed pods (samaras) develop and mature, providing early forage for local wildlife. As autumn arrives, the lush green leaves turn a brilliant, golden-yellow, eventually dropping to reveal a striking, intricate silhouette of branching architecture against the winter sky.

The Ecological Footprint

  • Wildlife Canopy: A premier ecological anchor, offering high-quality nesting sites and shelter for numerous songbirds, hawks, and small mammals.

  • The Seed Buffet: Produces papery samaras that serve as a vital, early-season food source for various birds and small mammals in the spring.

  • Soil Anchor: Exceptional at stabilizing soils and preventing erosion thanks to its widespread, resilient root system.

  • Hardy Survivor: Robustly adapts to varying soil conditions and urban environments, making it a reliable choice for large properties and open spaces.

The Honest Harvest (What to Expect)

  • The Perks: Highly adaptable to various soil types, boasts a breathtaking, classic vase-shaped silhouette, provides magnificent dense shade, and grows at a remarkably fast rate.

  • The Caveats: Susceptible to Dutch Elm disease and elm leaf beetles, which may require proactive monitoring and professional care. Its large mature size and sprawling root system mean it needs ample space away from underground utilities and structures.

Specifications

  • Botanical Name: Ulmus americana

  • Common Names: American Elm, White Elm, Water Elm

  • Mature Height: 60-80 feet

  • Mature Width: 40-60 feet

  • Growth Rate: Fast (2-3 feet per year)

  • Lifespan: 150-300 years

  • USDA Zones: 3-9

  • Chill Hours: *

  • Sun Preference: Full sun to partial shade

  • Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-drained soils; highly adaptable to clay, loam, and sand

  • Soil pH: Adaptable (4.8-8.0)

  • Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistently moist conditions but tolerates occasional dry spells once established

  • Flower Color: Inconspicuous reddish-green; early spring

  • Fruit Type: Flat, winged green-to-brown samaras; mid-spring

  • Pollinators: Wind-pollinated

  • Growth Habit: Large, upright, vase-shaped deciduous tree with an expansive canopy

  • Spacing: 40-50 feet apart for large open plantings or grand avenues

  • Landscape Uses: Shade tree, street tree, park planting, large lawn specimen, native naturalizing

  • Maintenance Level: Moderate (requires periodic structural pruning and monitoring for pests or diseases)

Planting & Care Guide

  • Hydration: Saturate the planting area thoroughly before setting the tree into the ground, and maintain consistent moisture during its initial establishment phase.

  • Siting: Choose a spacious location with plenty of room for its large canopy and root spread, ideally in full sun with deep, fertile soil.

  • Mulching: Apply a wide, 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base to retain ground moisture and protect the surface roots, keeping the mulch several inches away from the trunk.

  • Establishment: Ensure the tree receives regular, deep waterings during its first two growing seasons to help its extensive root system take hold.

  • Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring during the dormant season to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to encourage a strong, central leader structure.

  • Fertilization: Generally unnecessary in rich soils. If growth appears sluggish, a balanced, slow-release tree fertilizer applied in early spring can help support vigor.

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