FLORIDA ELM Ulmus floridana ( NATIVE )

The Ulmus americana and the Ulmus florida are related, but they are not the same plant. Let’s explore their differences:

1. Ulmus americana (American Elm):

   • Also known as the white elm, water elm, soft elm, or Florida elm (yes, it shares the name with the other species).
   • Native to eastern North America.
   • Vase-shaped habit with a broad, flat-topped or vase-like crown.
   • Can live for several hundred years.
   • Hardy and can withstand low winter temperatures.
   • Adapts well to a range of soil types and is hardy in USDA zones 2 to 9.
   • Susceptible to Dutch Elm Disease (DED), which has led to its decline in urban environments where it was once widely planted.
   • Bark: Grayish-brown with deep, diamond-shaped furrows.
   • Leaves: Alternate, simple, elliptic-ovate, coarsely serrated margin, green on the upper surface, paler green below.
   • Flowers: Small, wind-pollinated, inconspicuous, appearing in clusters in early spring.
   • Fruit: Winged samara that matures in spring.
   • Habitat: Thrives in moist, well-drained soils, adaptable to wet and dry sites.
   • Interesting Fact: The American Elm is associated with historical events and was once popular for planting in cities due to its majestic shape and shade-providing qualities¹.

2. Ulmus americana var. floridana (Florida Elm):

   • First described as Ulmus floridana by Alvan Wentworth Chapman in the 1860s.
   • Smaller than the typical American Elm.
   • Occurs naturally in north and central Florida, south to Lake Okeechobee².
   • Characteristics: Tall, straight-trunked tree with an elegant vase-shaped crown. Leaves are dark green throughout the year, fading to yellow before dropping in fall. Produces inconspicuous small green flowers in spring, followed by green, wafer-like seedpods popular with birds and wildlife.
   • Uses: The wood of Florida elm is used for making furniture, and indigenous peoples historically made canoes from it.
   • Planting and Care: Requires regular pruning for good structure. Not yet affected by Dutch Elm Disease in Florida³.

In summary, while both species belong to the Ulmus genus, they have distinct characteristics and are adapted to different regions. The Florida Elm is specifically found in Florida and has unique features compared to the broader American Elm species. 🌳🍃