American Elm
ulmus americana
Also known as: ["White Elm","Water Elm","Florida Elm"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to eastern and central North America, known for its arching branches and tolerance to urban conditions.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Genus: | Ulmus |
| Botanical Name: | Ulmus americana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor landscape, prefers open areas with space for growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-draining but can tolerate occasional moisture.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on tree size and health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for younger trees to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young trees gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun; ensure adequate spacing for light penetration.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor for leaf scorch; provide shade during extreme heat; rotate outdoor placement for balanced growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly to encourage deep roots; avoid frequent shallow watering; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
deep, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid waterlogged soil; enrich with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; tolerates cold winters and moderate heat. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost in early spring; water deeply before cold snaps; monitor for heat stress in summer.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only in spring; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas; water well after application.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings or seed propagation. Softwood cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; sterile seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seedlings can take 1–2 years to reach transplantable size.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
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; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve structure and air circulation. Prune to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw, pruning pole (for high branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; avoid topping the tree.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for young trees.
Method
Gently remove the tree from its container; prune any circling roots; replant in fresh soil with improved drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically required for mature trees. Young trees may need repotting every 2–3 years if container-grown.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; avoid wetting foliage; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply slowly to allow absorption, and continue until water drains from the bottom. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch, premature leaf drop, stunted growth, or dieback in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or discolor; branches can become brittle; root systems may slow or stop growth.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; protect young trees with burlap screens in harsh winters; avoid overwatering to prevent frost damage.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced photosynthesis, and potential dieback during prolonged heat.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves; provide temporary shade; apply mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid pruning during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Test soil before fertilizing; apply in early spring; avoid contact with roots; water thoroughly after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply according to package directions, avoiding over-fertilization.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAmerican Elm is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxins that would be harmful to felines, and contact or ingestion is not expected to result in adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAmerican Elm is not toxic to dogs. The tree does not contain any known substances that are harmful to canines, and ingestion of its parts is not expected to cause toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicUlmus americana, commonly known as American Elm, is not considered toxic to humans. The tree is primarily valued for its timber and ornamental purposes, and there are no known toxic compounds in its parts that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the American Elm tree resistant to Dutch elm disease?
A: No, it is highly susceptible to Dutch elm disease, though some resistant cultivars exist.
Q: How tall does the American Elm grow?
A: It can reach heights of 80–100 feet with a spread of 60–120 feet.
Q: Does the American Elm produce edible fruits?
A: The small, flat samaras are not typically consumed by humans but are eaten by birds and small mammals.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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