Slippery Elm

Common Name: Slippery Elm
Species Name: Ulmus rubra Muhl.
Family Name: Ulmaceae
Plant Type: Trees


Plant Facts
Origin	North America
Duration	Perennial
Distribution in Oklahoma	Eastern half and parts of southwest
Sun Preference	Moderately shade tolerant
Susceptibility	Dutch elm disease

ID Characteristics

Field Identification Characteristics

Known for slippery bark of twigs
Leaf and Stem Characteristics
- Plant Height: 18-inch diameter, 60-foot height
- Leaves: Decidious Broadleaf
- Leaf Type: Simple
- Leaf Arrangement: Alternate
- Leaf Shape: Elliptical, doubly-toothed
- Stipules: Yes
Floral Characteristics
- Petals: Small
- Flower Color: Reddish-green
- Flower Timing: Spring
- Fruit Type: Samara with single seed


Habitat/Ecology
Habitat	Hardwood forests and moist areas
Soil Type	Moist
USDA Cold Hardiness Zone	6 to 8
Successional Stage	Mid to late