Ulmus alata aka Winged Elm
Taxonomy
Ulmus alata, commonly known as the winged elm or wahoo, is a slow-growing, deciduous tree native to the southeastern and south-central regions of the United States. This small-to-medium-sized tree is adaptable to various soil types and can tolerate ponding, but it is the least shade-tolerant among North American elms. The winged elm is often considered a nuisance as it easily invades old fields, forest clearings, and rangelands, proving difficult to eradicate with herbicides. It typically reaches a height of 40 to 60 feet and has a vase-shaped crown formed by its branches. The leaves are oval and dark green with hairy undersides, turning a vibrant yellow in autumn. In early spring, the tree produces small, reddish brown flowers followed by brown winged fruits that disperse by the end of April. The distinctive feature of the winged elm is the broad, warty growths along its branches, resembling thin, irregular wings or knots. Overall, this tree adds beauty to landscapes with its glossy leaves, fall foliage, and unique branch formations.
Common names
Winged Elm, Wahoo Elm, Small Leaf ElmHow to care for Winged Elm
Difficulty
Winged Elm is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Water
Winged Elm should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Its needs are relatively simple, but one of the most important is making sure its soil is adequately moist. Without proper moisture, the plant can suffer from wilting and stunted growth. To ensure your Winged Elm is healthy, you must choose a potting soil that retains moisture.
Look for a soil with good drainage to prevent root rot, but also make sure it contains plenty of organic matter. Coco coir and sphagnum moss are both excellent ingredients for retaining moisture and providing the #self.names with the nutrients it needs to thrive. If you can find a soil that has a combination of these ingredients, your #self.names will thank you with beautiful blooms.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Winged Elm prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
The growth of Winged Elm is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Region of origin
Winged Elm’s native range is Eastern and Central N. America - Virginia to Florida, west to Illinois, Missouri and Texas.
More info:
Wikipedia
