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, which 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 the most susceptible.
Our American Elm seedlings are from trees that are apparently resistant to the disease. They 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.
