Title

American Elm

(F2154 American Elm)
File
Publication File:
Lead Author
Lead Author:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Availability
Availability:
Web only
Publication Sections

Table of Contents

General 
Scientific Name: Ulmus americana 
Family: Ulmaceae (Elm) 
Hardiness: Zone 2 
Leaves: Deciduous 
Plant Type: Tree 

Growth 
Rate: Fast 
Mature Height: >45’ 
Longevity: Long 
Power Line: No 

Ornamental 
Flowers: Inconspicuous 
Fruit: Tan samara 
Fall Color: Yellow

Description

The State Tree of North Dakota. A large vase-shaped tree adapted to a wide variety of sites. No longer generally recommended because of its susceptibility to Dutch Elm Disease (DED). However, DED-resistant cultivars are becoming more common, though none is 100% resistant to the disease. The largest tree in North Dakota is 87 feet tall with a canopy spread of 98.5 feet.

Preferences

Light: Full sun. 
Water: Medium. 
Soil: Adapted to wet and dry sites.

Comments

Several cultivated varieties are available. See NDSU Extension publication F1893 (Elms for North Dakota) for more information: 

‘Valley Forge’, Prairie Expedition® and St. Croix™ are resistant to Dutch Elm Disease. ‘Princeton’- Hardy in North Dakota but can have structural problems. Resistant to Dutch Elm Disease. 
‘New Harmony’ - Hardy in North Dakota with good structure but poor foliage. Resistant to Dutch Elm Disease. 
‘Minneapolis Park’ - Variably vase-shaped. Not resistant to Dutch Elm Disease.

American Elm
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
American Elm
American Elm
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
American Elm
American Elm
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
American Elm