Scotch Elm

(Ulmus glabra)

Scotch Elm (Ulmus glabra)

Stephen James McWilliam

Public Domain

Image By: Stephen James McWilliam

Recorded By:

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Ulmus glabra, commonly known as Scotch Elm or Wych Elm, is a deciduous tree native to European woodlands, particularly in moist, fertile soils along riverbanks and in upland areas. It is also found in parts of western Asia. This species can reach heights of up to 40 meters (130 feet), typically displaying a broad crown when open-grown, supported by a short bole with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of up to 2 meters (6.6 feet). The tree is characterized by its very tough, supple young shoots, which lack the corky ridges or ’wings’ seen in many other elm species. The hermaphroditic flowers emerge before the leaves in early spring, appearing in clusters of 10–20. They are small, at 4 mm across, on 10 mm long stems, and are wind-pollinated, hence apetalous. The Wych Elm is moderately shade-tolerant and thrives in deep, rich soils, but it is intolerant of acid soils, flooding, and prolonged drought.

The Wych Elm is valued for its hardiness and adaptability, often used in forest restoration projects and as a component of mixed woodland plantings. Its ability to withstand urban pollution and constrained growing conditions makes it a candidate for urban greening projects, despite its rarity as a street tree due to its shape. It requires full sun to part shade, medium water, and well-drained soils. While not commonly used in cultivation, it can be a resilient addition to large spaces and naturalized areas. Gardeners should be aware that Ulmus glabra can be potentially invasive outside its native range and should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Tree
Height: 70-100 feet
Width: 50-70 feet
Growth Rate: Rapid
Flower Color: N/A
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

native to European woodlands, particularly in moist, fertile soils along riverbanks and in upland areas

Other Names

Common Names: Wych Elm, Scottish Elm, European Mountain Elm, Broadleaf Elm, Skov-Elm, Bergulme, Berg-Ulme, Weißrüster, Vuorijalava, Orme Des Montagnes

Scientific Names: , Ulmus glabra, Ulmus campestris, Ulmus latifolia, Ulmus glabra f. glabrata, Ulmus glabra subsp. montana, Ulmus montana, Ulmus pyramidalis, Ulmus glandulosa, Ulmus glabra f. pendula

GBIF Accepted Name: Ulmus glabra Huds.