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American elm (Ulmus American) is fast growing, has an attractive vase-like crown, and was popular tree that shaded many streets in the eastern United States. However, in 1930, Dutch elm disease reached the United States in a shipment of elm logs from Europe. The disease quickly spread across the continent, killing millions of American elms and the remaining elms continue to die at alarming rates. Dutch elm disease is a fungus that disrupts the vascular system, causing wilting and eventual death within 2 months. The fungus is spread by bark beetles and root graphs. |
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Although in decline, American elm is found throughout Eastern North America
extending west to Manitoba and Texas. It is frequently found near swamps and
rivers in loamy soils, but doesn’t have a high tolerance for prolonged flooding
during the growing season. It has intermediate shade tolerance and grows well
with sugarberry, green ash, and sycamore, but is shaded out by sugar maple and
American beech.
American elm is a prolific and early seed producer. The flower buds, flowers, and fruit are eaten by gray squirrels. The seeds are also eaten by mice, squirrels, opossum, ruffed grouse, bobwhite, and partridge. The wood has interlocked grain, making it a good choice for applications that need toughness and flexibility, like hockey sticks. Reference: Sivics of forest trees of the United States. Agriculture handbook 271, 1965. USDA Forest Service. |
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