Chinese Elm (also known as Lacebark Elm)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Ulmaceae, Genus: Ulmus, Species: Ulmus parvifolia · Ulmaceae (Elm family) · Simple, deciduous (often semi-evergreen in warmer climates)
Species
Ulmus parvifolia
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous (often semi-evergreen in warmer climates)
Family
Ulmaceae (Elm family)
Shape
Elliptic to ovate with an asymmetrical base
Size
Approximately 1 to 2 inches long, making it notably smaller than many other elm species, typical for this cultivar or species range.
Margin
Singly serrate or doubly serrate with sharp, forward-pointing teeth
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green on the upper surface, paler green underneath. Colors appear healthy and typical for a mature summer leaf without signs of chlorosis.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent midrib and straight, parallel side veins extending directly to the margin teeth
Texture & Surface
Leathery to papery with a glabrous (smooth) or slightly rough upper surface
Description
The Chinese Elm is a graceful medium to large deciduous tree well known for its striking exfoliating bark, which peels in patches of gray, green, orange, and brown. It produces small, inconspicuous greenish flowers in late summer or autumn, followed by papery winged samaras.
Key Features
Distinguished by its very small, finely toothed leaves with distinctly asymmetrical bases, smooth texture, and famous mottled, multicolored exfoliating bark on mature trunks.
Habitat
Found in full sun to partial shade, adaptable to a wide range of soil types from clay to loam, highly tolerant of urban conditions, drought, and compaction.
Geographic Range
Native to eastern Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Widely planted as a shade and street tree across North America and Europe.
Condition Notes
The herbarium specimen leaf is in Good condition, well-preserved, flat, showing intact margins and clear venation without apparent pest damage or disease.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an elm, the Chinese Elm is highly resistant to Dutch elm disease, making it a favored replacement for American elms in urban forestry. It is also a very popular species for bonsai cultivation due to its small leaves and rapid healing from pruning.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as an ornamental shade tree, street tree, and bonsai subject. While not widely used for modern commercial medicine, various elm barks have historically been utilized for soothing herbal preparations.
Ecological Role
Provides shelter and nesting sites for urban birds and small mammals. The seeds are consumed by various finches and small wildlife.
Similar Species
Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila), which features larger leaves, and American Elm (Ulmus americana), which has significantly larger, rougher leaves and a vase-shaped canopy.
Foraging Tips
Look for trees planted in urban landscapes, parks, or botanical gardens. Key field markers are the small, shiny leaves with lopsided bases and the puzzle-piece multicolored bark on the trunk.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic