Siberian Elm

Scientific Name: Ulmus pumila L.
Family: Ulmaceae

Recommended Temperature Zone:
Sunset®: 1-24,26-345
USDA: 2-9

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part sun

Origin: Central Siberia, north China

Growth Habits: Deciduous tree, moderate to rapid growth to 30 to 70 feet tall (9-21 m), 25 to 40 feet spread (7.5-12 m), irregular shape due to limb breakage; irregularly furrowed bark; elliptic dar green leaves, 1 to 2.5 inches long (2.5-6.2 cm), turning yellow in the fall

Flowers: Red flowers

Watering Needs: Regular water, more drought resistant than the Chinese elm

Propagation: Seeds, self sows, can be invasive

Propagation: Cutting or occasionally seed

• by semi-hardwood stem tip cuttings, in summer. Use intermittent mist. Root in 8 weeks.
• by seeds.

"Ulmus pumila", U.S.D.A Forest Service, Courtesy of the Hunt Institute

Invasive tree, it is considered a noxious weed in several states. In the garden, its only redeeming values are extreme resistance to environment, and fast growth. In general it is not a great choice.

Herman, D.E. et al. 1996. North Dakota tree handbook. USDA NRCS ND State Soil Conservation Committee;

Blooming Habits:
Inconspicuous pale green flowers, in clusters, in the spring, before the leaves.

Fruiting Habits:
Flat, papery, winged samaras in mid-spring, nearly round, 0.5 inch in diameter (12 mm) with a notch at the tip.