American elm

American Elm (Ulmus americana) is a species of elm native to eastern North America. It is also known as the white elm due to the color of its wood. The American elm is a deciduous tree, typically growing to 20–35 m (66–115 ft) tall with a trunk up to 2 m (6.6 ft) diameter.

Description

The American elm is known for its distinctive vase-like shape, with branches that spread out in a broad, fan-like pattern. The leaves are alternate, 7–20 cm long, with double-serrate margins and an oblique base. The flowers are produced in early spring before the leaves, usually in tight, short-stalked, clusters of 10–20. The fruit is a flat, oval samara containing a single, central seed.

Distribution and Habitat

The American elm is native to an area extending from Newfoundland west to Alberta and Montana, and south to Florida and central Texas. It is adaptable to a wide range of soils and climates, but prefers moist, well-drained sites.

Uses

The wood of the American elm is hard and tough, and has been used for furniture, flooring, and shipbuilding. In urban areas, it has been widely planted as a street and park tree due to its tolerance of urban conditions and its beautiful form.

Disease and Threats

The American elm has been severely affected by Dutch elm disease, a fungal disease spread by elm bark beetles. Efforts to breed disease-resistant trees are ongoing, with some success.

Conservation

Conservation efforts for the American elm include breeding programs to develop disease-resistant trees, and efforts to preserve existing stands of healthy trees. The Elm Research Institute is one organization involved in these efforts.

See Also

• Elm
• Dutch elm disease
• Elm Research Institute

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