American Elm, White Elm, Water Elm
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Rosales, Family: Ulmaceae, Genus: Ulmus, Species: Ulmus americana · Ulmaceae (Elm family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Ulmus americana
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Ulmaceae (Elm family)
Shape
Ovate to elliptical with an asymmetrical, oblique base
Size
Approximately 3-5 inches long and 1-3 inches wide; this specimen appears to be a medium-sized mature leaf
Margin
Doubly serrate (teeth on teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common (though mature specimens are rare due to Dutch Elm Disease)
Color & Pattern
Deep green on the upper surface, slightly paler beneath; turns clear yellow in autumn. No significant variegation or spotting visible.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate; veins are straight, parallel, and extend directly to the leaf tips
Texture & Surface
Upper surface is typically slightly rough (scabrous) like sandpaper, though it can be smooth; lower surface is often pubescent
Description
A stately, vase-shaped deciduous tree known for its arching canopy. The bark is dark grey with deep intersecting ridges. It produces small green flowers in early spring before leaves appear, followed by flat, papery winged seeds called samaras.
Key Features
Asymmetrical (lopsided) leaf base, doubly serrate margins, and prominent parallel veins that do not fork before reaching the margin
Habitat
Thrives in rich, moist soils; commonly found in floodplains, stream banks, and swampy areas, but also hardy in urban environments
Geographic Range
Native to North America, ranging from Nova Scotia to Alberta, south to Florida and central Texas
Condition Notes
Excellent health; the leaf shows no signs of Dutch Elm Disease, beetle damage, or chlorosis. The green is vibrant and consistent.
Interesting Facts
The American Elm was almost wiped out across its range by Dutch Elm Disease, a fungal pathogen spread by bark beetles. Individual trees can live several hundred years if they remain resistant.
Medicinal & Uses
The inner bark was historically used for poultices to treat wounds and inflammation. Modern use is primarily as a hardy ornamental in cultivars bred for disease resistance.
Ecological Role
Provides critical nesting sites for birds like Baltimore Orioles. Its early seeds are a vital food source for songbirds and small mammals.
Similar Species
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra), which has a much rougher, sandpapery texture and hairy twigs; and European Elm, which often has shorter petioles.
Foraging Tips
Look for the distinctive 'lopsided' base where the leaf meets the petiole. In the wild, check near water sources like riverbanks in early summer when the papery samaras are visible.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans and common pets like dogs and cats.