American Elm (White Elm, Water Elm)
Ulmus americana · Ulmaceae (Elm family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Elliptic to ovate with an asymmetric (unequal) base
Margin
Doubly serrate (coarsely toothed with smaller teeth on the teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig
Venation
Pinnate with straight, parallel veins extending directly to the margin
Key Features
Unequal (asymmetric) leaf base where one side of the blade attaches lower on the petiole than the other, prominent doubly serrate margins, and a rough, sandpaper-like upper texture.
Description
The American Elm is a majestic, large deciduous tree known for its characteristic vase-like shape with an arching canopy. It features dark gray, deeply furrowed bark with diamond-shaped ridges. The leaves are simple, alternate, and uniquely identifiable by their heavily skewed bases. In spring, it produces small, inconspicuous greenish flowers followed by papery winged samaras.
Habitat
Typically found in rich, moist bottomland soils, floodplains, along streams, and in mixed hardwood forests. Adapts well to various soil types and urban conditions.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and Texas