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Ulmus glabra

wych elm

Large deciduous tree reaching about 45m tall, developing a dome-shaped crown with spreading branches. Broad, toothed, dark green leaves to 15cm long, rough above, downy beneath, turn yellow in autumn and tiny red flowers in spring are followed by clusters of green winged fruits crowding the branches

Other common names
mountain elm
Scotch elm
see moresmooth-leaved elm
witch elm
wych elm
Synonyms
Ulmus montana
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Red Green Green
Summer Green
Autumn Yellow
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Ulmaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus

Ulmus are deciduous trees, often large, with elliptic or ovate leaves often colouring well in autumn; inconspicuous flowers are followed by winged fruits

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well drained soil in full sun or partial shade. See tree cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed, see trees and shrubs from seed. Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer. Chip budding and grafting may also be used

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, bark beetles, horse chestnut scale and elm gall mites

Diseases

May be susceptible to Dutch elm disease, coral spot, honey fungus and phytophthora

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