American Elm (also known as White Elm, Water Elm, or 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
Ovato-lanceolate or elliptical with an asymmetrical, oblique base and an acuminate apex
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches long as shown in the preserved specimen, which is smaller than a typical mature leaf. Full-sized adult leaves typically range from 3 to 6 inches long and 1 to 3 inches wide.
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
Vibrant medium green upper surface with a lighter green underside. Colors appear healthy and typical for a mature summer leaf without signs of chlorosis.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with very prominent, straight, parallel lateral veins running directly from the midrib to the teeth along the margin
Texture & Surface
Somewhat rough (scabrous) on the upper surface, pubescent along the veins on the lower surface, giving it a papery yet textured feel
Description
The American Elm is a large, majestic deciduous tree known for its characteristic vase-like growth form, featuring a single trunk that splits high into arching branches. It produces small, wind-pollinated flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge, followed by small, paper-winged flat samaras.
Key Features
The most diagnostic features are the distinctly unequal, asymmetrical leaf base where the blade meets the petiole at different points, the doubly serrate margins, and the rough upper leaf surface.
Habitat
Found commonly in rich bottomland forests, along river floodplains, streamsides, and moist uplands. Prefers deep, rich, moist soils and can tolerate occasional flooding.
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America, stretching from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and Texas
Condition Notes
The leaf is in Good condition, carefully pressed and dried for a herbarium specimen with intact margins and clear venation
Interesting Facts
Historically planted extensively as a shade tree along American city streets, creating magnificent arching tunnels. Many famous historical documents and treaties were signed under spreading elms.
Medicinal & Uses
The inner bark has historically been used by Native Americans and early settlers for its mucilaginous properties to soothe sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues. The wood is tough and interlocking, formerly used for furniture, wheel hubs, and boxes.
Ecological Role
Provides crucial food and nesting habitat for various bird species, mammals, and caterpillars of butterflies such as the interrogation angle and mourning cloak. Highly susceptible to Dutch elm disease, a fungal pathogen spread by elm bark beetles.
Similar Species
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra), which has even rougher, sandpapery leaves and larger buds, and Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii), which features corky ridges on the twigs
Foraging Tips
Look for large vase-shaped trees near waterways or historic homesteads. Inspect the base of fallen leaves to confirm the signature asymmetrical leaf base.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic