Description
American Elm (Ulmus americana) is a fairly easy shade tree to grow. It matures to a large size and provides wonderful shade with an attractive umbrella shaped canopy. They were once the landscape tree of choice for urban areas. Many streets were shaded end to end by these beautiful trees. They are known for their graceful look and dense shade.
In the southern part of Michigan, they can be commonly found along streams or riverbanks. They do well in wet areas, but also in dryer forest settings. They can be found along roadsides and growing in open fields. Here is a wonderful article about the American Elm’s place in American history. The American Elm: The Story of a Historic Tree — Woodstock History Center
In 1928, Dutch elm disease was introduced to the United States through infected timber that was imported. It is a fungus that is spread by elm bark beetles. The fungus spores are carried on the beetle, they then enter the tree through damage caused by the beetle. The fungus originated in Asia and unfortunately, American Elm trees are susceptible.
The area near where I lived in the 1960’s had a magical woods that was full of American Elm. When I returned to the area some years later it was as if an evil creature went through those woods and killed all the trees. It was enough to make me cry.
It took about 15 to 20 years for the Upper Peninsula to get devastated by the elm disease. I drove M35 from Rock to Gwinn in 1970 and the road was lined with the most majestic elms I had ever seen and will never see again.
Sorry, I have one more American Elm story. In front of my tiny house Just under the propane tank one can see an old, rotting log. This elm died when the Dutch Elm disease came through around 1972. It finally fell over about 10 years ago. I think it will still be visible for another 20 years. That would be 70 some years after it died.
Elm are also more likely to survive when planted outside of the native range of the American Elm, where fewer elm are naturally located. The American Elm is not considered in danger of extinction. Our other Elms.
American Elm
Scientific Name: Ulmus americana
Zone: 3-9
Mature Height: 60-100 ft
Mature Width: 15-20 ft
Growth Rate: Fast
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil, can tolerate some flooding
Sun Requirements: Full Sun
Fall Color: Gold
