Slippery Elm
Ulmus rubra · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Ulmaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Wild species (no distinct named cultivar identified from image)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9, demonstrating high adaptability to diverse climatic extremes.
About This Tree
A medium to large deciduous tree with an upright, open, and spreading crown, often vase-shaped with ascending branches. It features rough-textured foliage, furrowed dark bark, and a moderate to fast growth rate.
Leaf Characteristics
Alternate, simple leaves measuring 4 to 8 inches long, obovate to ovate in shape, with coarsely doubly-serrate margins and an asymmetrical base. The upper surface is notably rough and sandpapery to the touch.
Bark Characteristics
Dark brown to gray-brown bark, deeply furrowed with flat-topped ridges. When cut, the inner bark is mucilaginous, fragrant, and light in color.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to eastern and central North America, extending from southern Canada down to northern Florida and west to the Great Plains.
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring, produces small reddish-green flowers in early spring before leaves emerge, forms samaras in late spring, and enters dormancy in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, rich, well-drained soils but shows good adaptability to various soil types and moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Expected mature height of 40 to 60 feet, with a spread of 40 to 60 feet. Moderate to fast growth rate with a lifespan of up to 100 to 200 years.
Special Characteristics
Somewhat resistant to Dutch elm disease compared to American elm. Known for its medicinal inner bark, high wildlife value, and tolerance to urban pollution.
Wildlife & Ecology
Supports numerous species of birds, mammals, and insect pollinators. Serves as a larval host for various butterfly species and provides nesting sites and shelter.