American Elm, White Elm, Water Elm
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiospermae, 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 (skewed) base
Size
2-5 inches long and 1-3 inches wide; typical for young growth or sapling specimens seen here.
Margin
Doubly serrate (teeth have smaller teeth on them)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common as seedlings/saplings, but Large Mature specimens are Rare due to Dutch Elm Disease.
Color & Pattern
Dark green upper surface; lighter, paler green underside. No variegation present. The specimen appears slightly dull, consistent with a dried or pressed sample.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with strong, straight, parallel secondary veins extending to the leaf margin
Texture & Surface
Scabrous (rough like sandpaper) to smooth on top; slightly pubescent (hairy) underneath; prominently veined texture.
Description
The American Elm is a majestic deciduous tree known for its vase-shaped canopy and spreading branches. The bark is dark grey with deep intersecting ridges. It produces inconspicuous small green flowers in early spring before leaves emerge, followed by wafer-like samara seeds.
Key Features
Inequilateral (asymmetrical) leaf base where one side is lower than the other on the petiole; doubly serrate margins; sandpaper-like texture.
Habitat
Found in rich bottomlands, floodplains, and stream banks, but also survives in well-drained upland soils.
Geographic Range
Native to eastern and central North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida and west to the Rockies.
Condition Notes
The specimen is dried and pressed. There is visible mechanical damage (tearing) on a few leaves, and some minor insect herbivory. Overall health grade: Fair (post-collection).
Interesting Facts
The American Elm was once the most popular street tree in the U.S. until Dutch Elm Disease decimated millions of them in the mid-20th century. Many famous 'Liberty Trees' of the American Revolution were Elms.
Medicinal & Uses
Historically the inner bark was used by Native Americans for treats of colds or as a poultice. Modern use is primarily ornamental (using disease-resistant cultivars) and for specialty timber like hockey sticks and furniture due to its interlocking grain.
Ecological Role
Provides habitat and food for larvae of several butterflies like the Question Mark and Painted Lady. Seeds are eaten by songbirds and squirrels.
Similar Species
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) which has even rougher leaves and mucilaginous inner bark; European Elm which has shorter petioles.
Foraging Tips
Look for the distinctive vase shape in the distance. In the field, run your finger over the leaf; if it feels like fine grit sandpaper and the base is crooked, it is likely an Elm.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans and common pets.