Ulmus americana, commonly known as American Elm, is a large, deciduous native tree once dominant in forests, floodplains, and urban landscapes across Illinois and much of eastern North America. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and full sun to light shade and is especially common along rivers, streams, and bottomlands.
This iconic tree is recognized for its tall, arching form and graceful, vase-shaped canopy. Mature trees can reach heights of 60 to 100 feet. The leaves are oval, doubly serrated, and asymmetrical at the base, turning yellow in fall. In early spring, before leaf-out, the tree produces small, wind-pollinated flowers, followed by flat, round winged seeds called samaras.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts and restoration efforts, Ulmus americana remains a keystone species with high ecological value. It provides nesting and shelter for birds, food for pollinators and wildlife, and shade for riparian ecosystems. Unfortunately, populations have been severely impacted by Dutch Elm Disease, a fungal infection spread by bark beetles. However, disease-resistant cultivars and careful management have made restoration and urban replanting efforts possible. When used in native or urban plantings, American Elm pairs well with species like Bur Oak, Common Hackberry, and native Maples for creating diverse, resilient canopies.
Ulmus americana, commonly known as American Elm, is a large, deciduous native tree once dominant in forests, floodplains, and urban landscapes across Illinois and much of eastern North America. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and full sun to light shade and is especially common along rivers, streams, and bottomlands.
This iconic tree is recognized for its tall, arching form and graceful, vase-shaped canopy. Mature trees can reach heights of 60 to 100 feet. The leaves are oval, doubly serrated, and asymmetrical at the base, turning yellow in fall. In early spring, before leaf-out, the tree produces small, wind-pollinated flowers, followed by flat, round winged seeds called samaras.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts and restoration efforts, Ulmus americana remains a keystone species with high ecological value. It provides nesting and shelter for birds, food for pollinators and wildlife, and shade for riparian ecosystems. Unfortunately, populations have been severely impacted by Dutch Elm Disease, a fungal infection spread by bark beetles. However, disease-resistant cultivars and careful management have made restoration and urban replanting efforts possible. When used in native or urban plantings, American Elm pairs well with species like Bur Oak, Common Hackberry, and native Maples for creating diverse, resilient canopies.
Bloom time: early to mid-spring
Habitats: fence rows; flatwoods in upland areas; higher ground in swamps; moist to mesic deciduous woodlands; roadsides; savannas; shaded banks of rivers and streams; wooded terraces along major rivers; woodland borders; woodland openings
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): tree (60 to 100 feet)
Requirements: full sun to light shade
Soil: fertile loam
