Species Siberian elm

Siberian elm

Ulmus pumila

The Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) is a deciduous tree of the Ulmaceae family native to Eastern Siberia and Northern China. It has a fast growth rate and can reach heights of up to 30 meters and 1 meter in diameter. Its bark is greyish-brown with shallow furrows and ridges, and its leaves are oval-shaped with serrated edges. The tree is hardy and drought-resistant, and its fragrant flowers bloom in late April and produce winged Samara fruits. Its wood is lightweight and strong, and the tree is often used for windbreaks and for firewood in some areas.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Reddish-green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) should be watered when the soil has dried out to about 2 inches. This is usually every 5-7 days. Water deeply, allowing the water to run through completely. Avoid over-watering as this can cause root rot. During the spring and summer months, it may require water twice a week. During mild winters, water once every 2 weeks or less. In hotter, dryer climates, more frequent waterings may be necessary.

sunlight

Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) prefers full sunlight throughout most of the day during the spring and summer months. During this period, its leaves should receive about 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It should also have at least some indirect sunlight for the rest of the day. If the Siberian elm is exposed to too much shade, its growth may be stunted and its health compromised. In the fall and winter months, this plant should receive some sunlight, but less than it needs in the spring and summer. About 4-5 hours of direct sunlight each day should be sufficient during these months.

pruning

Pruning of Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) should begin when the tree is young, soon after planting. This will encourage the plant to branch out and form a broader shape. Once the tree has reached 2 to 3 years of age, carefully thin out branches that are growing too close together or that are growing in unappealing directions. This will allow for healthier growth and will improve the overall shape of the tree. The best time to prune a Siberian elm is during the winter-dormant season, typically from late January through mid-March. Avoid pruning during spring months, as pruning causes the tree to put its energy into regenerating new growth instead of finishing the previous season's growth. Annual pruning is recommended to keep the shape and size manageable, and to get rid of any dead or damaged branches.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

The Siberian elm typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map