The Chinese Elm, a native to China, Japan, North Korea and Vietnam, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow to a height of 45 feet, with a distinctly slender trunk and crown. The leathery, lustrous green leaves are small and often retained as late as December or even January in warmer climates. The flowers bloom in early autumn, although depending on the conditions, the blooms may be small or short-lived.
Introduced first in Europe and later in America, the tree's popularity grew greatly as a result of the spread of Dutch elm disease among American Elms. The Chinese Elm, immune from most forms of the disease, is a tough landscape tree, durable enough for use in challenging planting situations. Ideal for public spaces and parking lots, younger trees can thrive in small planters along streets and in plazas or patios.
Scaring from major branch loss can leave behind unattractive, wound-like marks in the tree's exterior. The tree is known for the prominent patterns of grey, tan, and red that naturally appear in the bark, giving rise to its other common name, the "Lacebark Elm."
Chinese Elm trees are hardy and adaptable to almost every climate in the United States. Perfect for providing shade or a barrier to an exposed portion of a house, these trees provide a sense of respite and tranquility in almost any setting.