Ulmus

Ulmus - New Zealand’s Elm Trees

Growing colourful trees in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space
• They attract birds and bees
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced
• They can provide shelter and screening
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come

We have the largest variety of Elm trees, and we have the right one for your space. Our trees have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We grow and stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Ulmus trees, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Common questions about growing Elm trees

1. What is the local name for Ulmus?

The local name for Ulmus varies depending on the region and the specific species of elm tree. Some common local names for Ulmus include:

• Elm: This is the most common and widely used name for Ulmus, and it is used in many parts of the world.
• Wych elm: This is a common name for Ulmus glabra, a species of elm that is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
• English elm: This is a common name for Ulmus procera, a species of elm that is native to Europe and Asia.
• American elm: This is a common name for Ulmus americana, a species of elm that is native to North America.
• Slippery elm: This is a common name for Ulmus rubra, a species of elm that is native to North America.
• Cork elm: This is a common name for Ulmus alata, a species of elm that is native to North America.
• Chinese elm: This is a common name for Ulmus parvifolia, a species of elm that is native to China and Southeast Asia.

2. What is the English name for Ulmus minor?

Ulmus minor is commonly known as the field elm or smooth-leaved elm. It is a deciduous tree native to Europe, Asia Minor, and Iran. The field elm is a medium-sized tree, typically reaching heights of 20-30 meters (65-100 feet). It has smooth, glossy leaves that are smaller and narrower than those of other elm species. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruits are samaras, which are winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind.

3. Can you buy disease resistant elm trees?

Yes, you can buy disease-resistant elm trees. Several elm species have been bred to be resistant to Dutch elm disease (DED), a deadly fungal disease that has decimated elm populations worldwide. These disease-resistant elm trees are now widely available from nurseries and garden centers.

Here are some examples of disease-resistant elm trees:

• Ulmus 'New Horizon': This hybrid elm is highly resistant to DED and is a popular choice for landscaping. It is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of 20-30 meters (65-100 feet). It has attractive, glossy leaves and a vase-shaped crown.
• Ulmus 'Accolade': This hybrid elm is also highly resistant to DED and is a good choice for smaller spaces. It is a slower-growing tree than Ulmus 'New Horizon' and typically reaches heights of 10-15 meters (33-50 feet). It has a compact, rounded crown.
• Ulmus 'Cathedral': This hybrid elm is resistant to DED and is known for its beautiful vase-shaped crown. It is a medium-sized tree that typically reaches heights of 15-20 meters (50-65 feet). It has attractive, glossy leaves.
• Ulmus 'Wingham': This hybrid elm is highly resistant to DED and is a good choice for areas with poor soil conditions. It is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of 20-30 meters (65-100 feet). It has large, dark green leaves.

When choosing a disease-resistant elm tree, it is important to consider the size of your property, the soil conditions, and the desired growth rate.

4. What is the lifespan of Ulmus?

The lifespan of an Ulmus tree, commonly known as an elm tree, can vary depending on the species, growing conditions, and care. However, in general, elm trees can live for hundreds of years, with some specimens reaching an age of several centuries.

5. Why is slippery elm bark so expensive?

There are several factors that contribute to the high cost of slippery elm bark, including:

1. Sustainable Harvesting: Slippery elm bark can only be harvested from trees that are at least seven years old, and only the soft inner bark can be used. This sustainable harvesting practice limits the amount of bark that can be harvested each year, driving up the price.
2. Processing and Drying: The bark must be carefully processed and dried to prevent spoilage and ensure its quality. This process can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, adding to the overall cost of the product.
3. High Demand: Slippery elm bark is a popular herbal remedy with a wide range of health benefits, from soothing coughs and sore throats to easing digestive issues. This high demand further increases the price of the bark.
4. Limited Supply: Slippery elm trees are not as widely distributed as some other tree species, and the bark is not as readily available. This limited supply contributes to the high cost of the product.
5. Reputation and Quality: Slippery elm bark from reputable sources is known for its high quality and consistency. This reputation and quality assurance command a premium price in the market.

In summary, the combination of sustainable harvesting practices, processing and drying costs, high demand, limited supply, and reputation for quality all contribute to the high cost of slippery elm bark.

6. How tall does Ulmus tree grow?

The height of an Ulmus tree, commonly known as an elm tree, varies depending on the species and growing conditions. Some Ulmus species can grow to be quite tall, reaching heights of over 100 feet (30 meters) or more. Here are some examples of the typical heights of some common Ulmus species:

• Ulmus glabra (Wych elm): 60-100 feet (18-30 meters)
• Ulmus procera (English elm): 60-100 feet (18-30 meters)
• Ulmus americana (American elm): 60-100 feet (18-30 meters)
• Ulmus rubra (Slippery elm): 40-80 feet (12-24 meters)
• Ulmus alata (Cork elm): 40-80 feet (12-24 meters)
• Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese elm): 30-50 feet (9-15 meters)

However, it's important to note that these are just averages, and the actual height of an Ulmus tree can be influenced by various factors, including:

• Climate: Ulmus trees prefer temperate climates with well-drained soil. In colder climates, their growth may be stunted, and their height may be limited.
• Soil Conditions: Ulmus trees prefer fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. Poor soil conditions can stunt their growth and limit their height.
• Care Practices: Proper care, including regular watering, fertilization, and pest control, can help Ulmus trees reach their full potential height.
• Planting Location: Ulmus trees prefer sheltered locations with some morning sun. Exposure to strong winds can damage their foliage and hinder their growth, potentially limiting their height.
• Diseases and Pests: Some Ulmus species are susceptible to diseases and pests, such as Dutch elm disease, which can significantly affect their growth and reduce their mature height.

In summary, the height of an Ulmus tree depends on a combination of species, growing conditions, and care practices. While some Ulmus species can reach impressive heights, their actual growth potential is influenced by various factors. By providing optimal growing conditions and regular care, you can help your Ulmus tree reach its full potential height and enjoy its beauty and shade for many years to come.

7. Where do elm trees grow?

Elm trees are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with a distribution spanning North America, Europe, and Asia. They are typically found in deciduous forests, where they thrive in well-drained soils and ample sunlight. Here is a more detailed breakdown of their distribution:

• North America: Elm trees are widely distributed across North America, ranging from southern Canada to northern Mexico. Common species include the American elm (Ulmus americana), the slippery elm (Ulmus rubra), and the rock elm (Ulmus thomasii).
• Europe: Elm trees have been a significant part of European landscapes for centuries. Notable species include the English elm (Ulmus procera), the wych elm (Ulmus glabra), and the Dutch elm (Ulmus × hollandica), a hybrid between the two former species.
• Asia: Elm trees can be found scattered across Asia, with species such as the Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia), the Japanese elm (Ulmus japonica), and the Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) being prevalent in various regions.

The specific habitat preferences of elm trees vary depending on the species. Some species prefer moist, fertile soils along riverbanks or floodplains, while others are more adaptable to drier, upland conditions. However, in general, elm trees prefer well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH. They also require ample sunlight to thrive, typically growing in open areas or along forest edges where they receive direct sunlight.

8. What are the characteristics of an elm tree?

Elm trees are deciduous trees belonging to the genus Ulmus, characterized by their distinctive features and ecological significance. Here's a summary of their key characteristics:

1. Distinctive Leaves: Elm trees are known for their simple, serrated leaves that are arranged alternately along the branches. The leaf margins exhibit double serration, giving them a slightly toothed appearance.
2. Variable Leaf Shapes: Elm leaves exhibit a range of shapes, varying from oval or elliptical to obovate or lanceolate. The size of the leaves also varies among species, typically ranging from 2 to 5 inches in length.
3. Rough Bark Texture: Elm trees have rough, fissured bark that develops distinctive ridges and furrows as they mature. The bark color can vary depending on the species, often ranging from gray-brown to reddish-brown.
4. Branching Pattern: Elm trees typically have a vase-shaped or rounded crown, with branches that spread widely and droop slightly. This branching pattern creates a broad canopy that provides ample shade.
5. Wind-Pollinated Flowers: Elm trees produce small, inconspicuous flowers that are wind-pollinated. The flowers lack petals and are typically clustered in drooping or erect racemes.
6. Samaras as Fruits: Elm trees produce samaras, which are winged fruits that resemble small propellers. The samaras are dispersed by the wind, facilitating the spread of the tree species.
7. Adaptive Growth Habit: Elm trees can grow in a variety of habitats, including moist lowlands, upland forests, and even urban areas. They are generally adaptable to different soil conditions and can tolerate a range of climates.
8. Ecological Importance: Elm trees play a crucial role in their ecosystems, providing habitat for diverse wildlife, contributing to nutrient cycling, and helping to stabilize soil. They are also a valuable source of timber and wood products.
9. Symbolism and Cultural Significance: Elm trees have long been associated with strength, stability, and longevity, making them a symbol of resilience and enduring nature. They have been featured in various cultures and mythologies, often representing wisdom, protection, and the interconnectedness of life.
10. Threats and Conservation Efforts: Elm trees face challenges from Dutch elm disease, a fungal disease that has devastated populations worldwide. Conservation efforts focus on developing disease-resistant cultivars and promoting sustainable forestry practices.

9. Is Elm tree rare?

Yes, elm trees are becoming increasingly rare due to the devastating impact of Dutch elm disease (DED), a fungal disease that has decimated elm populations worldwide. This disease, first introduced to North America in the early 20th century, has killed millions of elm trees, particularly the American elm (Ulmus americana), which was once a common sight in many parts of the continent.

The spread of DED has significantly reduced the abundance of elm trees, making them a rare sight in many areas. In some regions, DED has caused the loss of over 90% of elm trees. This decline has not only altered the landscape but also had a profound impact on the ecosystems that rely on elm trees for habitat, food, and shelter.

10. Is Ulmus an evergreen?

The vast majority of Ulmus species, or elm trees, are deciduous, meaning they shed their leaves in the fall and remain bare throughout the winter. However, there is one notable exception, the Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia), also known as the lacebark elm or evergreen elm.

The Chinese elm is native to East Asia and is considered semi-evergreen or semi-deciduous. It retains some of its leaves during the winter, particularly in warmer climates, but it may lose a significant portion of its foliage in colder regions. Unlike truly evergreen trees, which keep their leaves all year round, the Chinese elm's leaves turn yellow or brown in the fall and eventually drop.

The reason for the Chinese elm's partial evergreen nature is not fully understood, but it is thought to be an adaptation to the warmer climate of its native range. By retaining some of its leaves, the tree can continue to photosynthesize and produce energy during milder winter months.