Drake Elm Ulmus parvifolia

Chinese elm is a woody, deciduous, shade tree in the elm family (Ulmaceae) and native to China, Korea and Japan. It has an upright habit and grows quickly to 40 to 50 feet tall and wide. 

It requires full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, though it will tolerate moist sites. It adapts to a variety of soil textures and pH. Seed is the best way to propagate Chinese elm. It resists Japanese beetles, elm leaf beetles and Dutch elm disease.  

Seasonal interest is provided by showy leaves, exfoliating bark, and colorful fall foliage. There is great variability among seedlings, and there are many cultivars available. Songbirds are attracted to this tree. 

Chinese elm is recommended as a specimen or shade tree in a lawn, recreational play area and children’s or winter gardens, However, avoid planting it near structures. Its low wind resistance causes branches to break. Its moderate salt tolerance makes it a good choice for coastal gardens. Chinese Elm makes a shade-resistant street or urban tree that is resistant to Dutch elm disease and air pollution. Unfortunately, it has very low wind resistance and has the potential to be weedy through self-seeding in surrounding landscapes. Please consider planting the NC native alternatives listed on the left side of this page. It is also used in bonsai..  

Quick ID Hints: 

• The bark is lacy, exfoliating and in shades of brown, tan, olive, and cinnamon.
• Inverted pins bear leaves.
• The leaves are simple, alternate, glossy dark green, smooth upper surface and hairy on the lower surface.
• Leaves are asymmetrical and have parallel veins.
• Leaves are coriaceous, persisting, medium to very small.
• It blooms in late summer in clusters.
• Fruits are samara, elliptic to ovate with the seed in the center.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: Its propensity to self-seed may cause it to be weedy in surrounding landscapes.The wood is weak and branches can break when stressed with wind, snow or ice. It occasionally experiences disease problems like wilts, rots, cankers and leaf spots.