Slippery Elm (also known as Red Elm or Gray Elm)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Rosales, Family: Ulmaceae, Genus: Ulmus, Species: Ulmus rubra · Ulmaceae (Elm family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Ulmus rubra (90% confidence based on serration and texture)
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Ulmaceae (Elm family)
Shape
Ovate to obovate, with a characteristic asymmetrical (oblique) base
Size
Approximately 4-7 inches long and 2-3 inches wide; this specimen appears to be a medium-sized mature leaf.
Margin
Doubly serrate (toothed edges where larger teeth have smaller teeth on them)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common in its native range, though populations have been impacted by Dutch Elm Disease.
Color & Pattern
Uniform medium-to-dark green on the upper surface with lighter green veins; turns dull yellow in autumn.
Venation Pattern
Strongly pinnate with straight, parallel lateral veins extending to the leaf margin
Texture & Surface
Scabrous (extremely rough, like sandpaper) on both sides, particularly the upper surface.
Description
A medium-sized tree with a spreading crown and dark reddish-brown bark. The leaves are distinctive for their sandpapery texture and lopsided bases. Unlike the American Elm, the inner bark of this species is mucilaginous.
Key Features
Sandpaper-like leaf texture, asymmetrical base, doubly serrate margins, and parallel lateral veins.
Habitat
Found in moist well-drained soils, floodplains, and rocky ridges; common in deciduous forests.
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America, from southeast Canada to Florida and west to Texas and North Dakota.
Condition Notes
The leaf appears healthy with minor insect feeding marks (small holes); no signs of Dutch Elm Disease or necrosis. Grade: Excellent.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Slippery Elm' comes from the thick, mucilaginous inner bark which feels slippery when chewed or mixed with water.
Medicinal & Uses
The inner bark is used in herbal medicine to treat sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues due to its demulcent properties. Wood is used for furniture and crates.
Ecological Role
Provides cover and nesting sites for birds; seeds (samaras) are eaten by many small mammals and songbirds.
Similar Species
American Elm (Ulmus americana) which has smoother top leaf surfaces, and Rock Elm (Ulmus thomasii) which has corky ridges on its twigs.
Foraging Tips
Rub the leaf surface; if it feels like fine-grit sandpaper on both sides, it is likely Slippery Elm. Look for the 'lop-sided' leaf base where one side attaches lower to the petiole than the other.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans and common pets; the inner bark is a recognized safe herbal supplement, though individuals with allergies to elm pollen should use caution.