How to identify Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra)

How to identify Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra)

Slippery elm, also known as Sweet elm, Grey elm, Indian elm

Slippery elm manifests as a moderately rapid grower, with the potential to reach an impressive height of around 70 feet (approximately 21 meters). The trunk exhibits a notable girth, typically spanning 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) in diameter. Its physical form deviates into a solitary trunk structure, which serves as the foundation for its expansive canopy. This species thrives optimally in bright sunlight and well-drained loamy or clay loam soils, showing resilience through periods of drought. The longevity of slippery elm is considerable, with a lifespan that can extend to two centuries in its natural setting.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Slippery elm

Reddish-green clustered flowers in early spring, 1 inch (2.5 cm) in size.

Broad, rounded leaves with whitish-green undersides and yellow fall color.

Dry, winged samara fruit, 0.5 to 1 inch (1.27 to 2.54 cm) diameter for wind dispersal.

Ascending to spreading branching stem pattern with black buds, 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) diameter.

Textured gray bark with reddish-brown inner bark, distinctive sliminess when cut.

Detailed Traits of Slippery elm

Leaf Features

The leaves of slippery elm are broad and rounded, measuring 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm) long and 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) wide. They have an offset base and rough texture due to minute hairs. The upper surface is green, while the lower surface is a whitish-green with short pubescence. The prominent white ribs of the veins are noticeable on the underside. In the fall, the leaves turn a dull yellow.

Leaf Shape

Ovate ,

Obovate

Leaf Apex

Acuminate

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Slippery elm features greenish-red flowers that form dense clusters of 5 to 20 flowers, spanning up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) across on short stems. The flowers appear from February to April. These clusters are compact and contribute to the early spring identification of the plant.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of slippery elm is characterized by an ascending to widely spreading branching pattern, subdividing into numerous twigs. The bark of the branches ranges from smooth, gray to reddish-brown. Older twigs show smoother texture, whereas young twigs display a rough and hairy surface. The buds are notably black. Both young and older stems maintain a thickness conducive to their robust structure, commonly measuring around 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) in diameter.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of slippery elm is a type of dry, winged seed known as a samara, characterized by its flat, circular shape. Each samara encases a single central seed and is framed by a papery, outer rim which aids in wind dispersion. The samaras are inconspicuous, blending with the foliage in a greenish hue before turning brown as they mature. With a diameter of approximately 0.5 to 1 inch (1.27 to 2.54 cm), they appear in abundance from late spring to early summer. The texture is somewhat leathery, yet lightweight, a crucial adaptation for dissemination by the breeze.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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