American Elm, White Elm, Water Elm
Ulmus americana · Ulmaceae (Elm family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Elliptical to ovate with an asymmetrical, oblique leaf base and an acuminate tip
Margin
Doubly serrate (coarsely toothed with smaller teeth on the larger teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with straight, prominent, parallel veins branching symmetrically from a central midrib
Key Features
Asymmetrical leaf base where one side of the blade meets the petiole lower than the other, doubly serrate margins, and a rough, sandpaper-like upper surface
Description
The American Elm is a majestic, large deciduous tree known for its distinct vase-like shape with an arching canopy. The bark is dark gray and deeply furrowed with intersecting ridges. It produces small, wind-pollinated greenish flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge, followed by papery, winged samaras.
Habitat
Rich bottomland forests, floodplains, along streams, and moist uplands with well-drained, fertile soils
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, extending from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and Texas
Notes
Northern Minnesota