American Elm (White Elm, Water Elm)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Ulmaceae, Genus: Ulmus, Species: Ulmus americana · Ulmaceae (Elm family) · Simple, deciduous leaf
Species
Ulmus americana
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Family
Ulmaceae (Elm family)
Shape
Elliptic to ovate with an asymmetric (unequal) leaf base
Size
Approximately 3 to 6 inches long and 1 to 3 inches wide, which is typical for a mature American Elm leaf.
Margin
Doubly serrate (coarsely toothed with smaller teeth on the primary teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common, though wild populations have been significantly impacted by Dutch elm disease.
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green upper surface with a lighter green underside. Fall color is a dull yellow. Minor dark spots indicating minor insect activity or fungal leaf spot are visible.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with very prominent, straight parallel veins running from the central midrib to the margins.
Texture & Surface
Somewhat rough or sandpaper-like (scabrous) on the upper surface, paler and slightly hairy along the veins on the lower surface.
Description
The American Elm is a large, majestic deciduous tree historically renowned for its vase-like canopy shape that once arched gracefully over countless American streets. The leaves are distinctive due to their strongly asymmetrical bases and prominent parallel veins. The bark is dark gray and deeply furrowed into interlacing scaly ridges. It produces small, wind-pollinated green flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge, followed by small, flat, winged seeds (samaras) with ciliated margins.
Key Features
Strongly asymmetrical leaf base where one side of the blade meets the petiole lower than the other, doubly serrate margins, prominent straight parallel veins, and scabrous upper leaf texture.
Habitat
Found in rich bottomland forests, floodplains, along streams, and in moist woods. Prefers moist, deep, fertile soils and full sun to partial shade.
Geographic Range
Native to eastern and central North America, stretching from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and central Texas.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition with minor cosmetic blemishes, including a few small dark fungal leaf spots and minor insect feeding holes near the margins.
Interesting Facts
The American Elm was famously planted as a shade tree along urban avenues across North America until Dutch elm disease, a fungal pathogen spread by elm bark beetles, decimated millions of trees starting in the early 20th century.
Medicinal & Uses
The inner bark of slippery elm (a close relative) is well-known for medicinal mucilage, while American Elm inner bark has historically been used by Native Americans for medicinal teas, poultices, and weaving cordage. The wood is tough and interlocking, traditionally used for making furniture, barrel hoops, and boxes.
Ecological Role
Provides vital nesting habitat and food for numerous bird species, including the Baltimore oriole which often weaves its hanging nests in elm branches. Serves as a larval host for several butterfly species, such as the question mark and comma butterflies.
Similar Species
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra), which has even rougher, larger leaves and reddish fuzzy buds; and Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii), which features corky ridges on the twigs. Distinguish Ulmus americana primarily by its smoother twigs and deeply curved, weeping canopy habit.
Foraging Tips
Look for mature trees along riverbanks and old homesteads. Key field indicators include the vase-shaped silhouette, deeply furrowed bark, and leaves featuring the classic unequal base and rough texture. Spring samaras can be foraged for a quick nibble.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. The leaves, bark, and seeds are safe for humans and animals, though not commonly consumed raw as a food staple.