Basket Elm

Ulmus crassifolia Nutt.

Ulmus crassifolia, commonly known as Basket Elm or Texas cedar elm, is a deciduous tree native to south-central North America. It is found in southern and eastern Texas, southern Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana, with smaller populations in western Mississippi, southwest Tennessee, and north-central Florida. The species also occurs in northeastern Mexico. It is the most common elm in Texas and is often found in flat valley bottom areas known as cedar elm flats. The species name refers to its thick leaves, while the common name relates to its association with juniper trees, locally called cedars.

Description

Ulmus crassifolia belongs to the Ulmaceae family and is part of the genus Ulmus. It was first described in 1835 by Nutt. The tree is widely distributed across several U.S. states, including Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas, as well as in northeastern Mexico. Its scientific name highlights the thick leaf structure, while the common name reflects its ecological association with juniper trees. The species is particularly prevalent in Texas, where it is the most common elm. It thrives in flat, low-lying areas, often referred to as cedar elm flats.