JAPANESE ELM (Ulmus parvifolia)

• Leaves: The leaves are small, ovate, and finely serrated, measuring about 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.5 cm) long. They are dark green and turn a lovely yellow or orange in the fall.

• Bark: The bark is distinctive, often with a mottled appearance that ranges from gray to brown, peeling off in strips as the tree matures.

• Flowers: Japanese elm produces inconspicuous flowers in early spring, followed by small, winged seeds (samaras) that are dispersed by the wind.

This tree typically grows to 40 to 50 feet (12 to 15 meters) tall with a broad, spreading canopy. It has a graceful, rounded shape that adds beauty to landscapes.

Hardiness: It is adaptable to a range of soil types and conditions, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.

Disease Resistance: Japanese elm is known for its resistance to Dutch elm disease, making it a popular choice for urban planting.

Japanese elm (Ulmus parvifolia) produces small, inconspicuous flowers in early spring, usually before the leaves fully emerge. Here are some details about its flowering:

• Flower Structure: The flowers are unisexual, meaning that individual flowers are either male or female. They are small, typically greenish or yellowish, and lack significant ornamental appeal.

• Pollination: The flowers are wind-pollinated, and they produce small, winged seeds (samaras) shortly after blooming.

• Blooming Season: Flowering usually occurs in late March to early April, depending on the climate and specific growing conditions.

• Fruit Production: Following pollination, the seeds develop quickly and are often dispersed by the wind, aiding in natural reproduction.

While the flowers themselves may not be striking, the overall tree provides beauty through its foliage, bark, and shape, making it a popular choice for landscaping.