American Elm
Ulmus americana
Last reviewed: July 2026
American Elm is a native deciduous tree found across most of the eastern and central United States. This adaptable species blooms from March through May and serves as an important host plant for butterflies and moths.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag American Elm as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
864"–1200" H × 480"–840" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 35 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, moths
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 411 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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American Elm is a large, stately shade tree that can reach 60-100 feet tall with a graceful, vase-shaped canopy. This native Texas tree provides excellent shade and has a classic, formal appearance that works well in larger landscapes. It blooms with small flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge.
Growing American Elm
Grow American Elm in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 864 to 1200 inches tall and spread 480 to 840 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Elm takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Tree size exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
- Best suited for backyard or with special approval
Wildlife value
The tree supports butterflies and moths, and its seeds provide food for birds. As a large native tree, it offers nesting sites and shelter for various wildlife species.
Common questions
- Where is American Elm native?
- American Elm is native to most of the eastern and central United States, from Maine to Florida and west to the Rocky Mountains, including states like Texas, Kansas, and Montana.
- When does American Elm bloom?
- American Elm typically blooms from March through May, producing small flowers before the leaves emerge in spring.
- What pollinators does American Elm support?
- American Elm serves as a host plant for various butterflies and moths, making it valuable for supporting native pollinator populations.
- What growing conditions does American Elm prefer?
- American Elm adapts to various light conditions from full sun to partial sun and tolerates a wide range of moisture levels from wet to dry soils.
- Is American Elm toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag American Elm as toxic to livestock.
- Is American Elm HOA-friendly?
- American Elm takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Elm? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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