Contents
Description
Ulmus Rubra, also known as the Slippery Elm, belongs to the Ulmaceae family. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20-30 meters tall and 60-120 centimeters in diameter. In the fall season, its leaves turn yellow and fall off.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Genus | Ulmus |
Appearance
The Slippery Elm’s bark is dark brown and deeply furrowed, and its twigs are reddish-brown and densely hairy. Its leaves are alternate, oval-shaped, and have a rough texture on top and a soft texture on the bottom. The leaves are around 10-20 centimeters long and 6-12 centimeters wide. The Slippery Elm produces small, reddish-brown flowers in the spring season.
Care Guide
The Slippery Elm requires moderate watering, and it should be watered once a week during the growing season. It prefers slightly acidic soil and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring. The Slippery Elm thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Slippery Elm is susceptible to Dutch Elm Disease, which is caused by a fungus spread by bark beetles. It can also be affected by elm leaf beetle, scale insects, and canker diseases. These pests and diseases can cause defoliation and weaken the tree, leading to its death.
Habitat
The Slippery Elm is native to eastern North America and can be found in wetlands, floodplains, and other moist areas. It prefers soils that are moist, deep, and rich in nutrients.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Slippery Elm edible?
A: Yes, the inner bark of the Slippery Elm can be used as a food source and has been used in traditional Native American medicine.
Q: What is the Slippery Elm’s medicinal value?
A: Slippery Elm has been used in traditional medicine to treat sore throat, cough, and other respiratory ailments. It is also used as a laxative and to soothe the digestive tract.
Q: Can Slippery Elm be used to make furniture?
A: Yes, Slippery Elm wood is strong, durable, and has a unique grain pattern, making it ideal for furniture making.
Q: Is the Slippery Elm endangered?
A: The Slippery Elm is not currently listed as an endangered species, but it is threatened by Dutch Elm Disease.
Related Plants
- Ulmus Americana (American Elm)
- Ulmus Parvifolia (Chinese Elm)
- Ulmus Glabra (Wych Elm)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Ulmus rubra. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a525
- USDA Forest Service. (2021). Slippery Elm. Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/ulmrub/all.html
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Ulmus rubra. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/slippery-elm-ulmus-rubra/
