treeN. America Native

American Elm

Name: American Elm
Brand: Ulmus
Availability: InStock

Ulmus americana

$240.95

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

840 inches

Width

720 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Can live over 300 years if disease-free

Native To

Eastern and Central North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

The American Elm is a large, graceful, vase-shaped deciduous tree, once the most popular street tree in America. It is known for its arching branches that create a cathedral-like canopy over streets. Its iconic vase shape is its most distinguishing feature. While the species was decimated by Dutch Elm Disease (DED), its genetic diversity and cultural significance have driven the development of numerous disease-resistant cultivars.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The American Elm is the quintessential American shade tree, celebrated for its magnificent, arching, vase-shaped canopy that creates a breathtaking cathedral effect when planted along streets or in parks. Its leaves turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.

As a fast-growing tree, it provides ample shade relatively quickly. Its tolerance of urban conditions and varied soils made it a historically valuable municipal tree.

It is a host plant for the larvae of several butterfly species, including the Eastern Comma and Mourning Cloak. Its seeds are a food source for birds and small mammals.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a large, open site with full sun and well-drained soil.
Dig a hole three times the width of the root ball.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is visible.
Backfill with native soil, watering to eliminate air pockets.
Water deeply and regularly for the first two years.
Apply a wide ring of mulch to protect the trunk and conserve water.

Pro Tip

Only plant modern, disease-resistant cultivars like 'Princeton' or 'Valley Forge' to ensure long-term survival.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide ample space for its large mature size.
Water during extended droughts.
Prune only when fully dormant to prevent disease transmission.

Don't

Do not plant non-resistant American Elms.
Avoid pruning from April to October when bark beetles are active.
Don't plant near buildings or power lines due to its large size.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Majestic shade tree for large propertiesClassic street tree (disease-resistant cultivars)Park and public space specimen

Companion Plants

Hydrangea quercifolia Asimina triloba Lindera benzoin Polystichum acrostichoides

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

American Elm questions

What zones can American Elm grow in?

American Elm is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is American Elm deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse American Elm, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does American Elm bloom?

American Elm typically blooms in early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does American Elm need full sun?

American Elm does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is American Elm drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), American Elm handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.