Ulmus alata
winged elm

Notes:

Amazingly, despite Sunset warning about branch breakage and aggressive root systems of elms in general, both Cal Poly and UFL cite this elm species in particular as having both strong branches and non-damaging roots. However, Odenwald/Turner contradict the roots bit at the species level. USDA says a deep soil is needed.

Salt tolerance is debated (Dirr vs. USDA).

Highly variable habit. Regular pruning required to train to a good structure, but do not fear the resulting open look, as the tree will fill in quickly. Leaves are so small that they usually don't even need to be raked.

Sources: Sunset, UFL, Missouri BG, Cal Poly, Dirr, NCSU, Odenwald/Turner, USDA.

Tags:

attracts:birds (ex-humming)
attracts:larval host
attracts:mammals
branches strong
clay tolerant
compacted soil tolerant
deer resistant
drought tolerant
exposure:full sun
exposure:part shade
fall color notable
fast-growing
fine texture
fire risk low
form:tree
full sun preferred
habit:conical/pyramidal
habit:irregular
habit:oval
habit:rounded
habit:upright
habit:vase
infertile soil tolerant
litter:minimal
native:eastern North America
open canopy
persistence:deciduous
pollution tolerant
pruning required
root restriction tolerant
sandy soil tolerant
type:broadleaf
use:shade tree
use:specimen
use:street
water:regular
weedy
wet soil tolerant


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