Ulmus laciniata

Ulmus laciniata is a deciduous tree in the elm family, Ulmaceae. Its native range spans temperate parts of eastern Asia. It grows in the Russian Far East, China, Korea and Japan. In Russia, its range includes Sakhalin and Primorye. In Japan, it occurs on all four main islands. Temperate forests form part of its natural habitat. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This elm reaches about 33 feet [10 metres] in height. It sheds its leaves each year. Plants For A Future places it in woodland garden canopies. It also lists the tree for secondary woodland planting. The flowers appear from April to May. Each flower has both male and female organs. Wind carries the pollen, rather than insects. The seeds ripen from May to June, soon after flowering.

Choose full sun and fertile ground for the best growing conditions. The tree can also grow in light woodland shade. It accepts sandy soil, loam and clay, provided water drains well. Soil of moderate quality can support it, too. It tolerates mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline ground. Keep the soil moist rather than choosing a dry site. Plants For A Future gives USDA hardiness zones 4–8. It also describes the tree as hardy and not frost tender.

Plants For A Future reports resistance to Dutch elm disease. Resistance does not mean the tree is immune. Beetles spread this disease, which has caused major elm losses. This resistance gives the species value for elm breeding. Fresh seed offers a way to raise new trees. Sow ripe seed in a cold frame without delay. It may sprout within a few days. Stored seed germinates less well; sow it in early spring. Grow seedlings under glass through their first winter. Plant them out after the last expected spring frost.

The leaves and inner bark have recorded food uses. Eat the leaves raw or cook them. The inner bark needs cooking. Dried bark can be ground into flour. This powder can thicken soup or join cereal flour for bread. Plants For A Future rates its food value two out of five. It records no known hazards, but this is not comprehensive safety evidence. The same source lists no known medicinal uses. It also reports no weed potential.