American Elm (White Elm, Water Elm)
Ulmus americana · Ulmaceae (Elm family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Elliptic to ovate with an asymmetric, unequally cordant base
Margin
Doubly serrate (coarsely toothed with smaller teeth along the primary teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with prominent, straight parallel lateral veins extending directly to the margin
Key Features
Unequally skewed leaf base where one side meets the petiole lower than the other, prominent straight parallel veins, doubly serrate margins, and rough upper leaf texture
Description
The American Elm is a majestic deciduous tree known for its characteristic vase-like shape with an arching canopy. It features dark gray, deeply furrowed bark with diamond-shaped ridges, small greenish flowers appearing in early spring before the leaves, and papery winged samaras for seeds.
Habitat
Rich bottomland forests, along streams, floodplains, and moist uplands with well-drained soils
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, stretching from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and Texas