American Elm

A once common shade tree that lined city streets with its distinctive umbrella shaped canopy.  Unfortunately, more than 75 percent were wiped out back in the 70s from Dutch elm disease, a deadly fungal disease that spreads from invasive elm bark beetles.  However, thanks to dedicated plant breeders with their disease resistant hybrids, the American elm is making a comeback.  This tree is a vital host plant for several butterfly and moth species.  It’s also favorite nesting tree for Baltimore orioles.

Learn more about Dutch elm disease here.

Select Dutch elm disease resistant hybrids

• Princeton (U. americana ′Princeton′)

• Valley Forge (U. americana ′Valley Forge′) 

• Jefferson (U. americana ′Jefferson′)

• New Harmony (U. americana ′New Harmony′)