Ulmus wallichiana

Ulmus wallichiana is a deciduous tree in the elm family, Ulmaceae. Its native range runs from eastern Afghanistan to Nepal. This includes parts of Pakistan and northern India. It grows in temperate regions, in broad-leaved forests and damp ravines. These habitats lie at 5,906–9,843 feet [1,800–3,000 metres] above sea level. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This elm can reach about 115 feet [35 metres] tall. The evidence does not give a separate size range for gardens. Its large tree form suits the canopy of a woodland garden. It sheds its leaves each year. Each flower has both male and female organs. Wind carries the pollen between flowers. The supplied species records give no flowering months or fruit details.

Choose full sun and fertile ground for planting. 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, though richer soil suits it best. It tolerates mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline ground. Keep the soil moist rather than letting it stay dry. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 5–9. Reports disagree about its response to Dutch elm disease. One calls it susceptible; another suggests some resistance. Do not assume that this tree will resist the disease. Beetles spread the infection.

The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Plants For A Future gives its food use a low rating. That source records no known hazards, but this is not proof of complete safety. It also records a skin-related medicinal use without further detail. The inner bark yields strong fibre for cord, sandals and slow matches. Young shoots provide material for strong ropes. Burnt twig ash supplies a dye, though the colour is not stated. The wood has a fine grain and a slight scent. It takes polish well and serves for furniture.

Fresh seed can sprout within days when sown in a cold frame. Stored seed gives poorer results and needs sowing in early spring. Move seedlings into separate pots once they are large enough. Keep them in a greenhouse through their first winter. Plant them out after the last expected frost, in late spring or early summer.