English Elm
Ulmus procera
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Description
The English Elm (Ulmus procera) is a large deciduous tree reaching heights of up to 40 meters, known for its tall, arching form and deeply fissured bark. It features broad, serrated leaves and small, wind-pollinated flowers. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, the English Elm serves as a valuable component of windbreaks and hedgerows, providing shade and shelter. Its extensive root system is effective in preventing soil erosion and enhancing soil structure through organic matter from leaf litter. Historically, English Elm wood was prized for its durability and resistance to splitting, making it ideal for furniture and boat building. In a food forest, it functions as a canopy layer, supporting biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. It can be paired with understory plants like elderberry and hawthorn, which thrive in its shade and contribute to a diverse ecosystem.
Growing Details
English Elm thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a preference for neutral to slightly alkaline pH levels. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to improve fertility and structure. Mulching with leaf litter or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like elderberry and hawthorn can be grown alongside to enhance biodiversity. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging. Propagation is best achieved through root cuttings or grafting due to th
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Ulmus procera</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, particularly the British Is
applicable geo region: Europe
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 leaves and young shoots of the English Elm can be used as a survival food, though they are not commonly consumed due to their low palatability. They can be eaten raw or cooked, but are generally considered a last resort.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: The bark of the English Elm has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent properties. It was historically applied to wounds or used in poultices to reduce inflammation and promote healing. However, caution is advised as the bark should not be used without proper knowledge of preparation and dosage.
health concerns: The tree is highly susceptible to Dutch elm disease, a fungal infection spread by elm bark beetles, which has devastated elm populations in many regions.
other uses: The wood of the English Elm is valued for its resistance to splitting, making it useful for furniture, flooring, and boat building. It is also used as firewood due to its good burning qualities.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Ulmus procera</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Ulmus procera
common names: English Elm; Common Elm; Atinian Elm
family: Ulmaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Ulmus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 0.0 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: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(7/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 100 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: English Elm thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a preference for neutral to slightly alkaline pH levels. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to improve fertility and structure. Mulching with leaf litter or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like elderberry and hawthorn can be grown alongside to enhance biodiversity. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging. Propagation is best achieved through root cuttings or grafting due to th
Potential Disturbances: The primary threat to English Elm is Dutch elm disease, caused by a fungus spread by elm bark beetles. Natural pest management includes introducing beneficial insects like lacewings to control aphids and using neem oil as an organic spray. Companion planting with garlic or chives can help repel pests. Regular pruning and removal of infected branches can also reduce disease spread.
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