Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra) is a large deciduous tree native to Europe and western Asia, reaching heights up to 40 meters with a broad, spreading crown. It plays a crucial role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a keystone species in mixed woodlands and hedgerows, providing habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and insects. Its deep root system stabilizes soil and prevents erosion, making it valuable for maintaining soil health and biodiversity. Historically, the inner bark was used as a famine food, and its wood is prized for its strength and flexibility, suitable for crafting and construction. In a food forest, Wych Elm serves as a canopy layer, offering shade and wind protection. It pairs well with understory plants like hazel and elderberry, which benefit from its shade tolerance.
Growing Details
Wych Elm thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It benefits from mulching with organic matter to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like elderberry and hazel can be planted nearby to create a diverse ecosystem. Common mistakes include planting in overly dry or compacted soils. Harvest the inner bark in early spring for best quality. Store dried bark in a cool, dry place.
Edible Parts
Inner Bark
Tags
Keystone Specie Hedge Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Bee Friendly Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Ulmus glabra</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and western Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions of Europe and western Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The inner bark can be dried, ground into a powder, and used as a famine food. It is typically harvested in spring when the sap is rising.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the bark has been used for its astringent properties to treat wounds and inflammation. It can be made into a poultice or decoction for topical application.
health concerns: The inner bark should only be used in moderation and not as a primary food source due to potential digestive issues.
other uses: The wood is used for making furniture, tool handles, and other items requiring strong, flexible wood. It is also valued as firewood.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Ulmus glabra
common names: Wych Elm; Scots Elm; Mountain Elm
family: Ulmaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Ulmus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: Medium
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 300 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Medium
max height: 40.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Wych Elm thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It benefits from mulching with organic matter to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like elderberry and hazel can be planted nearby to create a diverse ecosystem. Common mistakes include planting in overly dry or compacted soils. Harvest the inner bark in early spring for best quality. Store dried bark in a cool, dry place.
Potential Disturbances: Wych Elm is susceptible to Dutch elm disease, elm leaf beetle, and aphids. Natural pest management includes introducing beneficial insects like lacewings and ladybugs to control aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel beetles. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to deter pests.
Growth Timeline
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