American Elm (White Elm, Water Elm)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Ulmaceae, Genus: Ulmus, Species: U. americana · Ulmaceae (Elm family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Ulmus americana
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Ulmaceae (Elm family)
Shape
Elliptic to ovate with an asymmetrical base and an acuminate tip
Size
Approximately 4 to 6 inches long and 2 to 3 inches wide, which is typical for this species
Margin
Doubly serrate
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common, though heavily impacted historically by Dutch elm disease
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green upper surface turning yellow in autumn, paler underside with slight pubescence along the veins
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with straight, parallel lateral veins extending directly to the marginal teeth
Texture & Surface
Rough (scabrous) upper surface and softly hairy lower surface
Description
The American Elm is a large, majestic deciduous tree known for its characteristic vase-like growth form. It features dark gray bark with deep intersecting ridges, inconspicuous greenish flowers appearing in early spring before the leaves, and small, flat, winged samaras that mature in the spring.
Key Features
Distinctively asymmetrical leaf base, doubly serrate margins, rough upper leaf surface, and prominent straight parallel veins ending in teeth
Habitat
Rich bottomland forests, along streams, and floodplains, preferring moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and Texas
Condition Notes
The mounted herbarium specimen shows good structural integrity and a healthy mature green color with minimal damage
Interesting Facts
Historically planted widely as a shade tree to create grand urban street arches, but many populations were decimated by Dutch elm disease, a fungal pathogen introduced from Asia
Medicinal & Uses
Inner bark was traditionally used by Native Americans to treat colds, coughs, and wounds. Widely used historically as a premier street and shade tree due to its arching canopy
Ecological Role
Provides vital nesting habitat and food for various birds and mammals, though Dutch elm disease remains a major conservation and management concern
Similar Species
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra), which has rougher leaves on both sides and mucilaginous inner bark, and Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila), which has smaller, less asymmetrical leaves
Foraging Tips
Look for mature trees with a distinctive vase-shaped crown along rivers or old homesteads; collect leaves in late spring or summer for herbarium pressing
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic
Notes
I need both of these leafs to be identified