Ulmus Laciniata, also known as the Lacebark Elm, is a deciduous tree native to China. It is a member of the Ulmaceae family and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The tree can reach a height of up to 40 feet and has a wide, vase-shaped crown. Its small leaves are dark green with serrated edges and turn a beautiful yellow-orange in the fall. The Lacebark Elm is highly resistant to pests and diseases, making it a popular choice for landscaping and urban areas.
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Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Genus | Ulmus |
Appearance
The Lacebark Elm is renowned for its attractive bark, which peels away in thin layers to reveal a range of colors, including cream, orange, gray, and green. The bark’s mottled appearance gives the tree a unique and eye-catching texture. The tree’s leaves are small, oval-shaped, and dark green, with serrated edges. They grow to a length of 2-3 inches and are arranged alternately on the branches. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow-orange, adding to the tree’s ornamental value. The Lacebark Elm produces small flowers in the spring, which give way to small, winged fruits in the summer.
Care Guide
The Lacebark Elm is a hardy tree that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your tree healthy:
- Water: The Lacebark Elm requires moderate watering, especially during periods of drought. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
- Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the early spring, just before new growth appears.
- Soil: The Lacebark Elm prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun to partial shade, although it prefers some protection from the hottest afternoon sun. Plant the tree in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Lacebark Elm is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lacebark Elm is highly resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance tree. However, it can occasionally be affected by the following issues:
- Elm Leaf Beetle: This pest feeds on the tree’s leaves, causing them to turn brown and fall off. The best way to control the beetle is to spray the tree with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Dutch Elm Disease: This fungal disease is spread by bark beetles and can be fatal to the tree. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting leaves, and brown streaks in the tree’s bark. If you suspect your tree has Dutch Elm Disease, contact a professional arborist immediately.
Habitat
The Lacebark Elm is native to China, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations of up to 7,000 feet. The tree is adaptable to a wide range of soils and climatic conditions, making it suitable for cultivation in urban and suburban areas. The Lacebark Elm is often used as a street tree or planted in parks and gardens for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does the Lacebark Elm grow?
A: The Lacebark Elm is a relatively slow-growing tree, adding about 12-18 inches of height per year.
Q: Can the Lacebark Elm tolerate drought?
A: Yes, the Lacebark Elm is moderately drought-tolerant once established, although it benefits from regular watering during periods of drought.
Q: Does the Lacebark Elm lose its leaves in the winter?
A: Yes, the Lacebark Elm is a deciduous tree and loses its leaves in the fall.
Q: Is the Lacebark Elm susceptible to storm damage?
A: The Lacebark Elm has a strong, sturdy trunk and is relatively resistant to storm damage. However, like all trees, it can be affected by high winds and heavy snow loads.
Related Plants
- Ulmus Americana (American Elm)
- Ulmus Parvifolia (Chinese Elm)
- Ulmus Procera (English Elm)
References
- “Ulmus Parvifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b570.
- “Lacebark Elm.” Morton Arboretum, mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/lacebark-elm.
- “Ulmus Laciniata.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/horticulture/landscape-plants/ulmus-laciniata/.
