Ulmus parvifolia aka Chinese Elm
Taxonomy
Ulmus parvifolia, commonly known as the Chinese elm or lacebark elm, is a spreading, deciduous or semi-evergreen tree native to eastern Asia, including China, India, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. It was introduced to the UK in 1794 and is described as "one of the most splendid elms, having the poise of a graceful Nothofagus". The tree can reach heights of about 18m and has small, leathery, glossy rich green leaves that turn yellow or red in autumn, remaining on the branches until midwinter. It bears tiny red flowers from late summer to autumn, followed by winged green fruit in late autumn. The Chinese Elm is a resistant and fast-growing bonsai tree that can withstand even the most careless of gardeners. When not turned into a bonsai, it grows to be a sturdy and versatile tree, ranging from 33-59 ft tall and producing tough wood. This tree is known for its delicate and intricate net of branches and can tolerate a wide range of conditions in terms of temperature, light, and humidity.
Common names
Chinese Elm, Lacebark, Lacebark ElmHow to care for Chinese Elm
Difficulty
Caring for Chinese Elm can be demanding, requiring a deep understanding of its unique needs and a commitment to provide optimal care.
Water
Chinese Elm should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Chinese Elm requires special care to keep it thriving. Its sensitivity to dry soil means that you need to be especially careful when it comes to selecting the right potting soil. Look for a soil that will retain moisture, but is also well-draining. A good potting soil should have plenty of organic material, such as coco coir or sphagnum moss, which will help to keep the soil moist and provide extra nutrition for your plant. When planting your Lacebark Elm, make sure to mix the soil with some compost or manure to give it an extra boost of nutrients. Additionally, you should water your plant often to ensure that the soil remains moist. With the right care and attention, your Chinese Elm will bloom beautifully in your home.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Chinese 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
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
The Chinese Elm is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
Chinese Elm grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Chinese Elm’s native range is E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.
More info:
Wikipedia
