Slippery Elm
ulmus rubra
Also known as: ["Red Elm","Sweet Elm"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to eastern North America, known for its mucilaginous inner bark used medicinally.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Genus: | Ulmus |
| Botanical Name: | Ulmus rubra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, prefers slightly elevated or well-drained sites
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- 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 pruning to remove crowded branches and improve structure.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, use a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
deep, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids prolonged frost.
Protect from frost; water early in the day; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; 6–12 months to establish a young plant.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control size.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
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; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check for root rot; position plant at same depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
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 for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, leaf drop or browning in cold stress, stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback, especially in young plants.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch, move potted plants to sheltered locations, and avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor, especially in dry conditions.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves, provide shade during peak sun, and ensure adequate soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSlippery elm is typically non-toxic to cats when ingested in small amounts. The plant's mucilage may offer mild soothing effects on the digestive system. However, overconsumption could lead to mild gastrointestinal issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicSlippery elm is generally non-toxic to dogs when consumed in small amounts. The mucilage content may provide mild digestive benefits. However, large quantities could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Humans
Non-toxicUlmus rubra, commonly known as slippery elm, is generally considered non-toxic to humans when used appropriately. The inner bark contains mucilage, which can soothe the digestive tract and is often used in traditional medicine. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Slippery Elm safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, the inner bark is commonly used in herbal medicine for its soothing properties.
Q: Does this tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it provides food and habitat for various birds and insects.
Q: Is it drought tolerant?
A: It prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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