Cedar elm
Ulmus crassifolia
crassifolia
About this plant
Cedar elm is a medium-sized deciduous tree known for its rough bark and small, serrated leaves. It produces small greenish flowers in spring and winged seeds in fall. This tree is valued for its hardiness, shade, and ability to grow in urban environments. It is often used in landscaping and restoration projects in its native range.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Ulmus
- Family
- Ulmaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Rosales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Central and Southern United States
- Distribution
- Native to central and southern United States, especially Texas and surrounding states; also cultivated in similar climates.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Greenhouse
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -20 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 15-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 6-9
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, adaptable to clay and sandy soils
Watering. Water regularly during the first few years to establish roots. Once established, cedar elm is drought tolerant and only needs occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.
Fertilizing. Fertilize young trees in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth. Mature trees usually do not require regular fertilizing unless soil is poor.
Cedar elm is a tough tree that grows well in many soil types and can handle drought once established. It prefers full sun but tolerates some shade. It requires little maintenance but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells and pruning to remove dead branches.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Rough-textured bark, dense green foliage providing good shade, small spring flowers, and distinctive winged seeds in fall.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to plant in home gardens and public spaces.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Cedar elm pollen can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially during its flowering season. People prone to hay fever or asthma may experience sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes. To reduce exposure, avoid outdoor activities near these trees when they are releasing pollen and keep windows closed during high pollen times.
Common problems
Occasionally affected by elm leaf beetles and fungal diseases like Dutch elm disease, especially if stressed by drought or poor soil. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root problems.
Uses
Commonly used as a shade tree in parks, streets, and large gardens. Also used for erosion control and habitat restoration.
Notes
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and remove dead wood. Avoid overwatering and ensure good soil drainage to prevent root rot. Cedar elm is relatively resistant to common elm diseases but monitor for pests.