American Elm
Ulmus americana · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Ulmaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (Commonly 'Valley Forge' or 'Princeton' in modern plantings)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-9; highly adaptable to extreme cold and varied humidity levels.
About This Tree
A stately tree known for its distinctive vase-shaped form with arched branches and a spreading canopy. It features a medium growth rate and a high, dense crown.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, oval leaves 3-6 inches long with asymmetrical bases, doubly serrated margins, and prominent parallel veins. Dark green in summer, turning yellow in fall.
Bark Characteristics
Dark grey to grey-brown with deep, interlacing ridges and diamond-shaped furrows. Mature bark shows distinctive alternating light and dark layers when broken.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Eastern and Central North America
Growing Season
Buds open in early spring before leaves; flowering in March-April; samara production in May; dormancy in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Requires moderate watering; thrives in moist, well-drained loams but is quite adaptable to various soil types.
Mature Size
Reaches 60-80 feet in height with a spread of 30-60 feet. Can live over 200 years if resistant to disease.
Special Characteristics
Highly susceptible to Dutch Elm Disease (DED), though newer cultivars have resistance; high tolerance to urban pollution and salt.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides seeds (samaras) for birds and small mammals; larval host for several butterfly species including the Question Mark and Eastern Comma.