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Description
Ulmus Crassifolia, commonly known as the Thickleaf Elm or Cedar Elm, is a species of elm tree that can be found in the southern United States. This deciduous tree typically grows to a height of 50-70 feet and has a spread of 40-60 feet. Its oval-shaped crown is dense and rounded, providing ample shade during the summer months. The Thickleaf Elm has a moderate growth rate and can live for up to 150 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Urticales |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Genus | Ulmus |
Appearance
The Thickleaf Elm has dark green leaves that are small and oval-shaped, measuring 1-3 inches in length. The leaves are rough in texture and have a sandpaper-like feel to them. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before falling off the tree. The bark of the tree is dark gray and deeply furrowed, giving it a distinctive appearance. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring that are followed by small, winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
The Thickleaf Elm is a hardy tree that requires minimal care once established. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and moist. The tree should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during periods of drought. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote healthy growth. The Thickleaf Elm prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Thickleaf Elm is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but can be affected by Dutch Elm disease, which is caused by a fungus that is spread by elm bark beetles. The disease can cause the tree to die within a few years. Other pests that can affect the Thickleaf Elm include aphids, scales, and mites, which can cause leaf curling and discoloration.
Habitat
The Thickleaf Elm can be found in the southern United States, including Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. It prefers well-drained soils and is commonly found in bottomland forests, along streams and rivers, and in urban areas as a shade tree.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does the Thickleaf Elm grow?
A: The Thickleaf Elm has a moderate growth rate, typically growing 13-24 inches per year.
Q: Is the Thickleaf Elm tolerant of drought?
A: While the Thickleaf Elm can tolerate periods of drought, it prefers to be watered regularly during the growing season.
Q: What is Dutch Elm disease?
A: Dutch Elm disease is a fungal disease that affects elm trees and is spread by elm bark beetles. It can cause the tree to die within a few years.
Q: Can the Thickleaf Elm be grown in containers?
A: While the Thickleaf Elm can be grown in containers, it is not recommended as it can reach a large size and requires ample space to grow.
Related Plants
- Ulmus Americana (American Elm)
- Ulmus Parvifolia (Chinese Elm)
- Ulmus Glabra (Wych Elm)
References
- “Ulmus Crassifolia.” Floridata. Accessed June 14, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/1256.
- “Cedar Elm.” Texas A&M Forest Service. Accessed June 14, 2021. https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/CedarElm.
- “Ulmus Crassifolia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed June 14, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ULCR.
