American Elm (White Elm, Water Elm)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Equisetopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Ulmaceae, Genus: Ulmus, Species: Ulmus americana · Ulmaceae (Elm family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Ulmus americana
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Ulmaceae (Elm family)
Shape
Ovate to oblong-elliptical with an asymmetrical base and an acuminate apex
Size
Approximately 3-4 inches long and 2 inches wide, which is typical for the species; mature leaves generally range from 3 to 6 inches in length
Margin
Doubly serrate
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common, though wild mature specimens have drastically declined due to Dutch elm disease
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green upper surface with a lighter green underside; shows some minor dark spots and slight yellowing along the right margin indicating minor stress
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with very straight, parallel prominent lateral veins branching symmetrically from the central midrib
Texture & Surface
Rough (scabrous) on the upper surface, slightly pubescent beneath
Description
The American Elm is a majestic, large deciduous tree famously recognized by its distinct vase-shaped crown and arching canopy. It features dark gray, deeply furrowed bark and papery, winged seeds known as samaras that ripen in the spring. The leaves are distinctive for their sharply toothed edges and noticeably lopsided, asymmetrical bases.
Key Features
Unequal (asymmetrical) leaf base where one side of the blade meets the petiole significantly lower than the other, prominent straight parallel veins, doubly serrate margins, and rough texture
Habitat
Found primarily in rich, moist soils of bottomland forests, floodplains, along streams, and in transitional swamps, though highly adaptable to urban soils and full sun to partial shade
Geographic Range
Native to eastern and central North America, extending from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and Texas
Condition Notes
Fair condition; shows minor localized dark spots (likely fungal leaf spot or insect feeding) and slight marginal chlorosis on the right side, but the structural integrity of the leaf is intact
Interesting Facts
Historically planted extensively as a grand street tree creating cathedral-like leafy arches over American town roads, but millions were decimated by Dutch elm disease introduced in the 20th century
Medicinal & Uses
Native Americans used the inner bark of elms to create soothing poultices for wounds and brews for various ailments. The wood is tough, shock-resistant, and historically used for furniture, wheel hubs, and basket hoops
Ecological Role
Provides crucial food and nesting habitat for various bird species, mammals, and specialized insects, including caterpillars of several butterfly species. Highly susceptible to Ophiostoma ulmi (Dutch elm disease)
Similar Species
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) has an even rougher, sandpapery upper leaf surface; Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) has three main veins originating from the base rather than a single pinnate midrib
Foraging Tips
Look for the classic vase-shaped silhouette of the tree in forests or older neighborhoods. Examine alternate leaves on twigs for the unmistakable lopsided base and sandpapery feel
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic