Red Elm

Order: Rosales

Family: Ulmaceae

Genus: Ulmus

Species: U. rubra

Identifying Characteristics:

- is a deciduous tree which can grow to 20 m in height

- The tree has a different branching pattern than American Elm, and its heartwood is reddish-brown, giving the tree its alternative common name 'Red Elm'.

- The leaves are 10–18 cm long and have a rough texture, coarsely double-serrate margin and an oblique base.

- The perfect wind-pollinatedapetalous flowers are produced before the leaves in early spring, usually in clusters of 10–20.

- The fruit is an oval winged samara 20 mm long and containing a single, central seed.

- The Red Elm may be distinguished fromAmerican Elm by the hairiness of the buds and twigs (both smooth on the American Elm) and by its very short-stalked flowers.

Special Adaptations:

-The tree is reputedly less susceptible toDutch elm disease than other American elms, but is severely damaged by the Elm Leaf Beetle

-grows well in moisture-rich uplands, but it will also grow in dry, intermediate soils

- The bark also contains a mucilage that is used as a remedy for sore throats