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Field elm
Also known as: Common elm, Atinian elm
A common use for field elm (Ulmus minor) and other types of elm trees is for their wood, which has an interlocking grain and is therefore resistant to splitting. This tree has a distinctive crown, and you can tell it apart from the similar wych elm by noting the fact that its shoots are more slender.
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Spring
Bloom Time
Late summer
Harvest Time
20 m to 30 m
Plant Height
9 m to 12 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
Green
Fruit Color
5 - 32 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Winter
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Field elm

Distribution of Field elm

Distribution Map
Field elm's native region spans from northwest Africa, across Europe, to Central Asia. It naturally occurs in woodlands alongside main rivers, often found in association with ash and oak trees. The introduction of field elm has only occurred in a few areas, including Bolivia, New York, and South Africa. It is cultivated as an ornamental in its native range.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Low-lying forest
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Garden Use
Field elm will flourish in moist but well-drained medium to large gardens where it makes an excellent shade tree. It may also be grown on boulevards as a street tree, flourishing in a range of soils. This fast-growing water lover is salt, pollution, and flood tolerant.
Symbolism
Melancholy, death, the underworld
Interesting Facts
The field elm produces suckers that readily grow from roots and stumps, making it easy for the tree to recover from disease and damage. This resilience allows the trees to grow nearly 30 m tall and live a long time; there are reports of specimens planted in the 1600s surviving to the modern-day.
Name Story
Field elm: The typical habitat for this plant is an open field along a river, and so it is often called a field elm.
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Quickly Identify Field elm

1
Distinctive corky warts on slender stem, rough texture. Buds pubescent, clustered along surface. (stem)
2
Blocky interlocking bark pattern develops with age. Moderate thickness, greyish hue. (trunk_and_bark)
3
Oval silhouette, straight trunk, upward-reaching branches. Swift growth rate, prefers moist, fertile soil. (whole plant)
4
Small, reddish-green inconspicuous flowers in dense clusters. Petal-less, unnoticeable scent. (flower)
5
Flat, heart-shaped pale green samara with distinctive notch. Wind dispersed, light weight. (fruit)
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Care Guide for Field elm

Every 3 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
5 - 32 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Field elm prefers conditions that replicate its native habitat with occasional dry spells, showing moderate drought tolerance. Water every three weeks to prevent waterlogging. Typically grown outdoors, field elm adapts well to seasonal rainfall in temperate climates.
Fertilize: Field elm thrives with proper fertilization, especially in spring using a balanced 10-10-10 mix. Monthly high nitrogen applications during growth promote leaf health. Adjust feeding in autumn, incorporate fertilizer into moist soil, and water thoroughly post-application while wearing protective gear.
Pruning: Field elm is a deciduous tree with serrated leaves and a vase-like shape. Prune in early spring, removing dead or damaged branches to improve air circulation. Thinning encourages a stronger structure. Conservative pruning prevents disease spread and minimizes stress on the tree.
Propagation: Field elm propagates effectively via cuttings from healthy, disease-free stems. Use well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture during rooting. Protect saplings from extreme temperatures to promote robust growth.
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