Title

American Elm

(F2154 American Elm)
File
Publication File:
Lead Author
Lead Author:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Availability
Availability:
Web only
Publication Sections

Table of Contents

General
Scientific Name: Ulmus americana
Family: Ulmaceae (Elm)
Hardiness: Zone 2
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Tree

Growth
Rate: Fast
Mature Height: >45’
Longevity: Long
Power Line: No

Ornamental
Flowers: Inconspicuous
Fruit: Tan samara
Fall Color: Yellow

Description

The State Tree of North Dakota. A large vase-shaped tree adapted to a wide variety of sites. No longer generally recommended because of its susceptibility to Dutch Elm Disease (DED). However, DED-resistant cultivars are becoming more common, though none is 100% resistant to the disease. The largest tree in North Dakota is 87 feet tall with a canopy spread of 98.5 feet.

Preferences

Light: Full sun.
Water: Medium.
Soil: Adapted to wet and dry sites.

Comments

Several cultivated varieties are available. See NDSU Extension publication F1893 (Elms for North Dakota) for more information:

‘Valley Forge’, Prairie Expedition® and St. Croix™ are resistant to Dutch Elm Disease. ‘Princeton’- Hardy in North Dakota but can have structural problems. Resistant to Dutch Elm Disease.
‘New Harmony’ - Hardy in North Dakota with good structure but poor foliage. Resistant to Dutch Elm Disease.
‘Minneapolis Park’ - Variably vase-shaped. Not resistant to Dutch Elm Disease.

American Elm
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
American Elm
American Elm
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
American Elm
American Elm
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
American Elm