Ulmus parvifolia

Chinese Elm

Tree

This partly evergreen to deciduous tree has a spreading canopy of arching branches and weeping branchlets. It is fast growing, reaching 30 feet in five years. It has glossy deep green leaves and a smooth, dappled gray and tan trunk.

Temperature

Hardy to cold. Foliage may brown and drop at about 25F.

Water requirements

Best with occasional deep irrigation once established, but tolerates ample water of lawn irrigation.

Sun

Part to full sun.

Soil

Prefers deep soil with good drainage.

Maintenance

Constant at first to develop a canopy, then periodic.

Disadvantages

Subject to Texas root rot. Occasionally slow to develop canopy at first, but then rapidly develops a heavy weeping crown that can break in a strong wind if not thinned. Flakes from bark and leaves in fall can litter.

Bloom

Unimportant flowers in summer.

Fruit or Seeds

Small decorative fruit follows flowers.

Uses

Street tree, commercial projects, public spaces. Fast shade.

Origin

Member of the Ulmaceae family.

Cultivars

'Sempervirens' is smaller and more delicate, nearly evergreen and better for residential use. Other cultivars are 'Drake' and 'True Green.'

Themes

Woodsy, Informal.

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