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American Elm

Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.

American Elm

Shade tree

Ulmus americana

  • Partial sun
  • Zones 3–9
  • 60 days to maturity
  • Flowers
  • 480" spacing
  • Moderate water
  • pH 5.5–8
Add to my garden
  • Overview

    The classic American street tree famous for its graceful vase-shaped canopy that once lined countless city streets. Modern disease-resistant cultivars have brought this beloved native back from near extinction caused by Dutch elm disease. Fast-growing and adaptable, American elms create cathedral-like canopies perfect for large properties and urban settings.

  • Planting

    Plant fresh seeds immediately after collection or transplant nursery trees

  • Growing

    Sun: partial. Water: moderate. Soil pH: 5.5–8. Space plants 480" apart. Germination: 7-14 days (seeds).

  • Pests & diseases

    Common pests: Elm leaf beetle, elm bark beetle, aphids. Common diseases: Dutch elm disease, elm yellows, powdery mildew.