American Elm - Ulmus americana

Phonetic: ULM-us a-mer-ih-KAY-nah

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American elm, is a large deciduous tree native to eastern and central North America. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soils, though it is highly adaptable and can grow in a variety of conditions—from rich bottomlands to upland slopes. Naturally found along rivers, floodplains, and moist forests, American elm tolerates periodic flooding yet can also withstand brief dry spells once established. Its tall, vase-shaped form and broad canopy once made it one of the most iconic and widespread shade trees across the continent before Dutch elm disease drastically reduced its population.

American elm blooms in early spring, typically from March to April. The tree produces small, inconspicuous greenish flowers in clusters on the previous year’s twigs. Pollination occurs by wind rather than by insects, allowing the flowers to develop quickly into flat, circular winged seeds known as samaras. These fruits ripen and disperse by late spring, usually in May, often before the leaves are fully grown

American Elm makes many contributions to the  ecosystems. Its seeds provide food for birds, small mammals, and even fish when they fall into waterways. The tree’s dense canopy offers shade and nesting habitat for numerous bird species, while its leaves support the larvae of several native moths and butterflies, including the Red Spotted Purple Butterfly. Although it is wind-pollinated and not a major nectar source, American elm contributes indirectly to pollinator health by maintaining forest diversity and providing shelter and microhabitats that sustain insect populations.

• Hardiness Zone: 3 - 9
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun
• Native Region: BONAP Map
• BONAP Map Key Color Guide: Map Color Key
• Flower Color: Green, Red
• Bloom Time: April
• Soil Type: Medium Dry, Medium, Moist
• Mature Plant Size: 60-80'H 30-60'W
• Plant Spacing: 40-60'
• Host Plant: Red Spotted Purple Butterfly, 
• Attracts: Bees, Birds, Butterflies
• Advantages: Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Poor Soil Tolerant 
• Landscape Uses: Sun Garden, Borders
• Companion Plants: Witch Hazel, Common Spicebush, Smooth Hydrangea