American Elm (White Elm, Gray Elm)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Ulmaceae, Genus: Ulmus, Species: U. americana · Ulmaceae (Elm family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Ulmus americana
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Ulmaceae (Elm family)
Shape
Elliptical to ovate with an asymmetrical base and acute apex
Size
Approximately 2 to 3 inches long on this pressed specimen; typical mature range is 3 to 6 inches long and 1 to 3 inches wide
Margin
Doubly serrate
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common, though populations have been severely impacted by Dutch elm disease
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green on the upper surface, slightly paler underneath; turns a dull yellow in autumn
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with prominent, straight parallel veins extending to the marginal teeth
Texture & Surface
Rough or scabrous upper surface resembling sandpaper, slightly hairy underneath
Description
The American Elm is a large, graceful deciduous tree famous for its distinct vase-shaped canopy and arching branches. The bark is dark gray and deeply furrowed with intersecting diamond-shaped ridges. Flowers are small and wind-pollinated, appearing in early spring before the leaves, followed by small, flat, winged seeds known as samaras.
Key Features
Asymmetrical leaf base where one side of the blade joins the petiole lower than the other, doubly serrate margins, sandpaper-like upper leaf texture, and a vase-shaped tree architecture
Habitat
Bottomland forests, floodplains, stream banks, and rich moist soils, though adaptable to various upland conditions
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia westward to Alberta and Saskatchewan, and south to Florida and central Texas
Condition Notes
The pressed specimen is in good herbarium condition showing intact margins and venation, though naturally dried and flattened for storage
Interesting Facts
Historically, American Elms were the premier urban street tree due to their arching branches creating cathedral-like leafy tunnels. The wood is exceptionally tough and interlocking, making it historically popular for hubs, shipbuilding, and furniture.
Medicinal & Uses
Native Americans used the inner bark of various elm species for medicinal teas to treat coughs, colds, and sore throats. The wood is utilized for flooring, furniture, boxes, and basket hoops due to its resistance to splitting.
Ecological Role
Provides critical nesting habitat and cover for numerous bird species and serves as a larval host for several butterfly species, including the Mourning Cloak and Question Mark
Similar Species
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra), which has even rougher, larger leaves and mucilaginous inner bark, and Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila), which features much smaller, less asymmetrical leaves
Foraging Tips
Look for mature trees along riverbanks and old urban neighborhoods featuring the characteristic vase-shaped silhouette and rough, alternate leaves with distinctly off-center bases
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. The plant parts are generally considered safe for humans and animals.