American elm 18-24"
American Elm (Ulmus americana) is a stately, fast-growing native hardwood once iconic across the eastern and midwestern landscapes of North America. Known for its graceful vase-shaped crown and deeply furrowed bark, this species brings shade, structure, and resilience to parks, streetscapes, and restoration sites. Its serrated leaves turn golden yellow in autumn, and its early spring flowers support native pollinators before leaf-out.
Historically beloved for its towering form and adaptability, American Elm is now making a comeback thanks to disease-resistant selections and renewed interest in native canopy trees. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils but tolerates a wide range of conditions, including urban stressors and seasonal flooding. Reaching heights of 60 to 80 feet, it provides critical habitat for birds and insects, while its root system stabilizes streambanks and riparian zones.