Ulmus minor aka Common Elm

Ulmus minor, the field elm, belongs to the elm family, Ulmaceae. Its native range spans Europe and reaches Central Asia and Iran. It also grows wild in northwestern Africa. This deciduous tree occurs in temperate regions, including Britain and Ireland. It grows fast and often lives near rivers. Its large size suits grounds with ample space.

Garden height ranges from 70–90 feet [21–27 m] in the NCSU account. RHS describes trees reaching about 98 feet [30 m]. NCSU gives a spread of 30–40 feet [9–12 m]. The crown forms an oval above a straight trunk. Slender branches rise upward, though some arch outward. Older bark feels rough, with shallow grooves forming block-like patches. Some branches bear corky ridges or warts. Small winter buds have hairs and range from reddish-brown to black.

The simple leaves grow alternately along the stems. They range from narrow ovals to longer, oblong shapes. Their tips taper, and their edges are doubly serrate. Glossy green leaves turn yellow before falling in autumn. The flowers are small and easy to miss. NCSU records winter bloom; RHS places flowering in mid-to-late spring. RHS describes the flowers as red. Each pale green samara has a thin, papery wing. A notch marks its tip, and it holds one seed.

Grow field elm in sun or partial shade. It accepts many soils, including clay, loam, sand and chalk. It also tolerates acid, neutral and alkaline ground. Moist, fertile soil with good drainage suits it best. It withstands drought and brief spells of wet soil. Salt and urban pollution are other tolerated stresses. NCSU lists USDA zones 5–7; RHS rates it H7. Trees may take 20–50 years to reach full size. Propagation methods include seed, summer softwood cuttings, budding and grafting.

Field elm provides shade on lawns and along streets. Sources also suggest coastal, rain and wildlife gardens. Its wood serves furniture makers and provides flooring and fuel. Water-resistant timber has uses in boats and underwater structures. Disease and pests can make this a demanding tree. It lacks resistance to Dutch elm disease and elm leaf beetles. Other threats include aphids, bark beetles, scale and gall mites. Coral spot, honey fungus and phytophthora may also occur.