History

• The American Elm is inherently part of American history due to its North American origins. Native Americans used American Elm wood to make canoes. European settlers steamed strips of American Elm to fashion wooden hoops and storage barrels. American Elm is still used today to make furniture such as rocking chairs and other wooden products.
  The population of American Elm was nearly wiped out completely when Dutch elm disease was introduced to America in the 1930s, most likely in a shipment of wood from China. Over 50 years the disease, spread by beetles, wiped out more than 100 million trees. A Dutch elm disease-resistant tree has been reintroduced since the 1990s.
  
  

Time Frame

• American Elm seeds germinate from 12 to 60 days. Once a seedling, the tree grows quickly and can withstand inadvertent flooding and frosts. The tree begins seeding around 15 years of age. This tree type loses its leaves every fall, buds as early as February and drops its seeds as late as June.The American Elm can live for more than 300 years.
  
  

Features

• The American Elm has a shallow, expansive root system that can be as little as three feet below the surface. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall with a 100-foot spread. The 6-inch leaves are green, simple and oblong-shaped. In spring, the tree develops small green flowers and small, green and round fruit. The bark is dark gray and can be scaly.
  
  

Types

• There are different types of American Elm tree. The following are resistant to the Dutch elm disease: Delaware #2 elm, Jefferson elm, Liberty elm, New Harmony elm, Princeton elm and Valley Forge elm.
  
  

Care

• The American Elm tree thrives in full sun, but will also grow in partial shade. The soil pH should be either slightly acidic or alkaline, well-drained and rich with nutrients. Because the roots are so close to the surface, they may cause problems for lawn mowing and paving. Pruning is essential for healthy growth. The American Elm is susceptible to disease and pests. Growers should look for signs of beetles, borers, mites, moths, scales and rotting.