small-leaf elm
Ulmus alata Michx.
Ulmus alata, known as the small-leaf elm, is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern and south-central United States. It is part of the Ulmaceae family and was first described in 1803 by Michx. This species is found in woodlands across several U.S. states and is known for its adaptability to various soil types and flooding conditions. However, it is not shade-tolerant and grows slowly, with trunks expanding by less than 5 mm annually. The tree can become invasive in old fields, forest clearings, and rangelands, and is difficult to control with herbicides.
Description
Ulmus alata is a small- to medium-sized tree that thrives in a range of environments, including woodlands and disturbed areas. It is native to the southeastern and south-central United States, where it is commonly found in states such as Alabama, Arkansas, and Florida. The tree is characterized by its slow growth and intolerance to shade. Its ability to invade open areas and resistance to herbicides make it a challenging species to manage in certain landscapes. Despite its potential as a nuisance, it is a resilient tree that can tolerate ponding and diverse soil conditions.
Other common names
Winged Elmwahoo elmsmall-leaf elm
Distribution
Global · Alabama · Arkansas · Florida · Georgia · Illinois · Indiana · Kansas · Kentucky · Louisiana · Maryland · Mississippi · Missouri · North Carolina · Ohio · Oklahoma · South Carolina · Tennessee · Texas · Virginia
Synonyms
Ulmus pumilaUlmus americana var. alata