Ulmus fulva

Ulmus fulva, also known as the Slippery Elm, is a species of elm native to eastern North America. It is named for its mucilaginous inner bark, which has been used for its soothing properties in traditional medicine.

Description

The Slippery Elm is a medium-sized decidary tree that typically grows to a height of 12-20 meters. It has a 50 cm diameter trunk and a broad, spreading crown. The leaves are 10-18 cm long and have a rough texture on top and a softer texture underneath. The flowers are produced in early spring before the leaves emerge and are arranged in tight, short-stalked clusters. The fruit is a round samara, measuring 2 cm in diameter.

Distribution and habitat

The Slippery Elm is native to eastern North America, from southern Quebec to northern Florida and east to Texas. It is typically found in low, wet areas and along streams and rivers.

Uses

The inner bark of the Slippery Elm has been used in traditional medicine for its soothing properties. It is often made into a tea or a poultice and applied to wounds, burns, and skin irritations. It has also been used as a food during times of famine.

Conservation status

The Slippery Elm is currently listed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. However, it is threatened by Dutch elm disease, a fungal disease that has decimated elm populations in North America and Europe.

See also

• Elm
• Dutch elm disease
• Traditional medicine

Ulmus fulva Resources
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