Ulmus macrocarpa

Ulmus macrocarpa is also known as the large-fruited elm. It belongs to the elm family, Ulmaceae. This deciduous tree sheds its leaves each year. Its native range spans southeastern Siberia, Mongolia, China and Korea. It grows in temperate regions. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. In the wild, it grows in mixed woods and valleys. It also grows on slopes, some dry, sunny and rocky. Records place it at heights around 2,300–2,625 feet [700–800 metres].

This tree reaches about 33 feet [10 metres] tall. It can form part of a woodland garden canopy. The supplied species evidence gives no width at full growth. It gives no detailed account of the leaves. Flowers appear from April to May. Wind carries their pollen. Each flower has both male and female organs. Seeds ripen from May to June, soon after the flowers. Plants For A Future reports these dates for its yearly cycle.

Choose full sun and fertile soil where possible. The tree also grows in light woodland shade. It accepts sand, loam and clay if water drains well. Soil of moderate quality can support it. Slightly acid, neutral and slightly alkaline soils all suit it. It grows in dry or moist ground. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 4–8. It also describes the tree as frost hardy.

Plants For A Future reports resistance to Dutch elm disease. This does not mean the tree is immune. Beetles spread this disease, so that distinction still matters. You can grow new trees from fresh seed. Sow seed soon after it ripens; it can sprout within days. Stored seed tends to sprout less well. Young seedlings can spend their first winter under glass. Plant them out after the last expected spring frosts.

People can eat the leaves raw or cooked. People have used the fruits in sauces as a last-resort food. Plants For A Future records no known hazards. This does not amount to a full safety check. It also records medicinal uses for the seeds and bark. The bark contains tannins. Reports describe astringent effects, which tighten tissue, and action against microbes. Traditional uses include treating diarrhoea and parasites inside the body. These records do not prove health benefits or establish safe doses. The source also notes uses for the wood. It records external treatments for parasites on the body too.