American Elm

Scientific Name:
Ulmus Americana

Average height at maturity:
60 to 80 feet

Average width of canopy at maturity:
30 to 60 feet

Leaves and bark:

The American elm has leaves that are oval shaped with sharp jagged edges. These leaves are dark green during summer and yellow in autumn.
The American elm has bark that is dark gray and scaly with ridges.

Other fun and interesting facts:

The American elm is native to North America and was the most popular tree planted in growing cities in the 19th century.
In the 20th century, Dutch elm disease caused American elm trees to be killed off since they were very vulnerable to the pathogen. American elms once used to live up to 200 or more years, but because of this disease, individuals rarely survive beyond 30 years.
American elms tend to have twisting upper branches.
The American elm is the state tree of Massachusetts and North Dakota. It became the state tree of Massachusetts because General George Washington became commander of the Continental Army beneath an American elm on Cambridge Common in 1775.
Look for an American elm near the small playground in Wood Park.

Sources:

Photo Credit to Ben Leynse
Information compiled as part of Robert Slater’s 2023 Eagle Scout Project

LEAVES	BARK

Tree Tour - American Elm

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