Field Elm
Ulmus minor
Also known as European Field Elm, Small Leaved Elm, Common Elm
Climate Match for your location
See how well Field Elm grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
A medium to large deciduous tree with a spreading crown, small leaves, and inconspicuous flowers followed by winged seeds. It is valued for its graceful form and adaptability to various conditions.
Why grow it
Field Elm is smaller and more refined than English Elm, making it suitable for landscapes where a medium-sized shade tree fits better. It tolerates urban conditions, poor soils, and drought once established, which makes it more adaptable than many other native elms. The species is valued in mixed plantings and shelterbelts for its dense crown and wildlife value.
Watch out for
Young trees benefit from staking and consistent watering during establishment; growth can be slow in the first few years. Pruning should be done in late summer or autumn to minimize disease entry, as fresh cuts on elms attract fungal pathogens.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Ulmaceae
Native Range
Southern and central Europe, western Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A medium to large deciduous tree with a spreading crown, small leaves, and inconspicuous flowers followed by winged seeds. It is valued for its graceful form and adaptability to various conditions.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Field Elm grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Field Elm is smaller and more refined than English Elm, making it suitable for landscapes where a medium-sized shade tree fits better. It tolerates urban conditions, poor soils, and drought once established, which makes it more adaptable than many other native elms. The species is valued in mixed plantings and shelterbelts for its dense crown and wildlife value.
Watch out for
Young trees benefit from staking and consistent watering during establishment; growth can be slow in the first few years. Pruning should be done in late summer or autumn to minimize disease entry, as fresh cuts on elms attract fungal pathogens.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Ulmaceae
Native Range
Southern and central Europe, western Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.