Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Pinnately compound-looking twig with simple, alternate leaves, deciduous
Shape
Elliptic to obovate with an asymmetrical (unequal) base and an acuminate tip
Margin
Doubly serrate (coarsely toothed with smaller teeth along the main teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig, often appearing in a flat, two-ranked plane
Venation
Pinnate with very straight, prominent parallel side veins extending directly to the marginal teeth
Key Features
Asymmetrical leaf base where one side of the blade meets the petiole lower than the other, prominent straight parallel veins, doubly serrate margins, and rough texture
Description
The American Elm is a majestic deciduous tree renowned for its graceful, vase-like crown and arching branches. It features dark grey, deeply furrowed bark and papery leaves that turn a brilliant golden yellow in autumn before dropping.
Habitat
Rich bottomland forests, floodplains, along streams, and moist uplands with well-drained soils
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and Texas