Cedar Elm
Ulmus crassifolia
Also listed as Ulmus monterreyensis, Ulmus opaca
Also known as Basket Elm, Southern Rock Elm, Red Elm
Climate Match for your location
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Cedar Elm is a native Texas tree with small, elegant leaves and a spreading crown that provides excellent shade. It is drought-tolerant once established and valued for its graceful form and ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
Why grow it
Cedar Elm offers a native alternative to non-native shade trees in south-central regions, combining moderate growth rate with genuine drought tolerance once roots establish. It tolerates alkaline and compacted soils better than many elms, making it practical for difficult sites where other shade species struggle. Its smaller stature (typically 40-60 feet) suits properties where larger natives like bur oak would eventually overwhelm space.
Watch out for
Young trees benefit from consistent watering during their first two growing seasons, despite eventual drought hardiness. Like other elms, it can attract spider mites and scale insects during stress periods, particularly in drier years. The wood is relatively soft and prone to storm damage in areas exposed to high winds or ice loads.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Ulmaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
South-central United States (Texas, Oklahoma)
Native to: Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Cedar Elm is a native Texas tree with small, elegant leaves and a spreading crown that provides excellent shade. It is drought-tolerant once established and valued for its graceful form and ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Cedar Elm grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Cedar Elm offers a native alternative to non-native shade trees in south-central regions, combining moderate growth rate with genuine drought tolerance once roots establish. It tolerates alkaline and compacted soils better than many elms, making it practical for difficult sites where other shade species struggle. Its smaller stature (typically 40-60 feet) suits properties where larger natives like bur oak would eventually overwhelm space.
Watch out for
Young trees benefit from consistent watering during their first two growing seasons, despite eventual drought hardiness. Like other elms, it can attract spider mites and scale insects during stress periods, particularly in drier years. The wood is relatively soft and prone to storm damage in areas exposed to high winds or ice loads.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Ulmaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
South-central United States (Texas, Oklahoma)
Native to: Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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