Ulmus Americana

Ulmus americana (American Elm) is a classic native shade tree known for its graceful, vase shaped form and arching canopy. Once a dominant street tree, it remains highly valued for its elegant structure, adaptability, and ability to provide expansive shade in large landscapes.

Height & Spread: 60 - 80 ft x 50 - 70 ft

Bloom Time: Early spring (inconspicuous)

Light Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Adaptable; tolerates wet, clay, and urban soils

Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerant of occasional flooding

Deer Resistance: Moderate deer resistance

Native Status

Native to eastern and central North America, commonly found in floodplains, riverbanks, and lowland forests.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Birds

• Seeds are eaten by finches and other small birds, and large branches provide nesting habitat.

Butterflies & Moths

• Host plant for species such as the Mourning Cloak, Question Mark, and Eastern Comma butterflies.

Mammals

• Provides shelter and habitat for squirrels and other urban and woodland mammals.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

• Space 50 - 70 ft apart to accommodate its broad, arching canopy.

Landscape Placement

• Ideal for large landscapes, parks, and restoration plantings where a classic shade tree form is desired.

Companion Plants

• Quercus bicolor (Swamp White Oak) - Shares tolerance for moist soils and contributes strong ecological value.
• Acer rubrum (Red Maple) - Adds seasonal color variation and adapts to similar site conditions.
• Itea virginica - Provides understory structure in moist and partially shaded areas.
• Carex stricta - Forms a native ground layer suited to wetter soils beneath canopy trees.