Smooth-leaved Elm
ulmus carpinifolia
Also known as: ["Slippery Elm","Field Elm"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Europe, known for its smooth leaves and tolerance to urban conditions.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Genus: | Ulmus |
| Botanical Name: | Ulmus carpinifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, prefers space for root and canopy expansion
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–20–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; selective removal of problematic branches without over-thinning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or filtered sunlight daily, with protection from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; avoid sudden exposure to intense light; provide shade during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for leaf scorch.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
deep, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; tolerates temperatures between -20°F and 80°F; prefers cool winters and moderate summers.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize before new growth appears; water before and after applying fertilizer; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is flexible but mature.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or coarse sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main branch; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased branches; shape the tree for better structure and air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, and place in shade for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.
Checklist
Choose correct pot size, prepare new soil, trim roots if needed, water well, and monitor for stress.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch, wilting, premature leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; branches can become brittle; root growth slows or halts in freezing conditions.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in extreme cold; avoid overwatering in winter.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced growth, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose correct fertilizer, apply at proper time, water thoroughly, monitor plant response.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late autumn and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicUlmus carpinifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicUlmus carpinifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects resulting from exposure or ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Humans
Non-toxicUlmus carpinifolia, commonly known as smooth-leaved elm, is not typically associated with significant toxicity to humans. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ulmus carpinifolia suitable for urban environments?
A: Yes, it is known for its tolerance to urban conditions.
Q: Does this tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are common issues with this plant?
A: Common problems include leaf spots and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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