Wych Elm
Ulmus glabra
Also listed as Ulmus campestris, Ulmus scabra
Also known as Scots Elm, European Mountain Elm, Scotch Elm
Climate Match for your location
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A large deciduous tree native to Europe with rough, dark bark and winged samara seeds. Wych elm is valued for its broad, spreading canopy and attractive foliage, though it is susceptible to Dutch elm disease.
Why grow it
Wych elm grows larger and faster than most other European elms, making it useful for establishing tall windbreaks or shade canopies on suitable sites. Its heavy, hard wood and deeply lobed leaves distinguish it from the smooth-barked English elm, though both species fill similar ecological niches. Where Dutch elm disease pressure is moderate, wych elm can still provide substantial biomass and wildlife habitat before decline.
Watch out for
Wych elm produces abundant, viable seed that can spread into nearby areas; consider this when planting in or near remnant natural areas. Growth rates and canopy spread vary significantly with soil depth and moisture, so site selection substantially affects long-term performance and maintenance needs.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Ulmaceae
Native Range
Northern and central Europe
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 large deciduous tree native to Europe with rough, dark bark and winged samara seeds. Wych elm is valued for its broad, spreading canopy and attractive foliage, though it is susceptible to Dutch elm disease.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Wych Elm grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Wych elm grows larger and faster than most other European elms, making it useful for establishing tall windbreaks or shade canopies on suitable sites. Its heavy, hard wood and deeply lobed leaves distinguish it from the smooth-barked English elm, though both species fill similar ecological niches. Where Dutch elm disease pressure is moderate, wych elm can still provide substantial biomass and wildlife habitat before decline.
Watch out for
Wych elm produces abundant, viable seed that can spread into nearby areas; consider this when planting in or near remnant natural areas. Growth rates and canopy spread vary significantly with soil depth and moisture, so site selection substantially affects long-term performance and maintenance needs.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Ulmaceae
Native Range
Northern and central Europe
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:
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