I think most of us remember how streets and lawns at one time were lined with American Elms, particularly in New England and in the Midwest. Most of these trees were killed by Dutch Elm Disease. The campus of the University of Delaware was lined down the mall with American Elms and each year I was there a few more were removed.

There is at least one Elm that does well here and is resistant to the Dutch Elm Disease, Ulmus parvifolia, Chinese or Lacebark Elm.

The common name Lacebark Elm comes from the mottled, exfoliating bark in irregular patches, exposing the lighter bark beneath. The bark is a combination of gray, green, orange, and brown. It is variable so seeing a tree prior to purchase may help in selecting the best for bark color. The stems are gray-brown and fine in texture.

Chinese Elms have ¾ or 2 ½ inch long and 1/3 to 1 1/3 inch wide leaves. They are a lustrous dark green. In fall leaves turn yellowish and reddish, purple. Fall color may or may not be outstanding depending on cultivar, year and location. Sometimes leaves will stay on the plant until November.

It grows 40-50 feet high and wide. It is a medium to fast grower depending on moisture and fertility levels. It is recorded to grow over a 1.5 feet per year for 10 years. The tree is hardy from Zones 5-9. It transplants easily and is adaptable to pH and soil extremes. For best growth, plant in moist, well drained, fertile soils. Can be used in urban, street tree situations.

The flowers are not noticeable but the fruit is like all Elms a samara. Seed can be collected fresh and will germinate.

Not only does Chinese Elm have resistance to the Dutch Elm Disease but it seems to be avoided by Elm leaf and Japanese beetles.

Chinese Elm is an excellent, durable tree which should be used more often instead of the ho-hum river birch and Bradford pear. Several cultivars are available. Here in the Wilson Arboretum, we have 'Allee' planted in the tree planting. Even the branches of this fine cultivar exfoliate with a burnt orange underneath. It creates a dense canopy, a wonderful place to sit in the shade and enjoy a lemonaide. Fall color is yellow. It shows excellent drought tolerance. Many other cultivars are available.

The Wilson Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, at 1806 S. Goldsboro Street and is open from dawn until dusk. Come visit the garden!

Home gardening questions can be answered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1 until 3 PM by calling 237-0113. and speaking to a Master Gardener. Applications for the Master Gardener program are being accepted now for fall training, starting September 9.

Date Created: 7/11/03.