Princeton American Elm

Princeton American Elm (Ulmus americana 'Princeton')

Princeton American Elm is a classic, upright vase-shaped shade tree selected for strong tolerance to Dutch elm disease. Glossy green foliage forms a high, arching canopy that casts broad, cooling shade and turns yellow in fall, suiting streetscapes and large lawns.

Distinctive Features

Graceful, arching limbs recreate the historic American elm look with modern durability, combining uniform structure, vigorous growth, and strong urban adaptability.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best canopy density and form.
• Soil: Adaptable to most well drained soils, including loams and urban clays.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment, then deep soak during extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9.
• Mature Size: Typically 60 to 80 ft tall and 50 to 70 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Iconic vase-shaped silhouette provides architectural structure and generous shade.
• Street Tree: Performs along sidewalks and medians with good urban tolerance.
• Shade Tree: Broad crown cools lawns, patios, and play areas.
• Allees and Drives: Repeats elegantly in rows to frame entries and walks.
• Parks and Campuses: Reliable large-scale canopy for open greens and gathering spaces.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water weekly the first 2 to 3 years; transition to occasional deep watering during drought.
• Pruning: Train early for strong branch structure and clearance; prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing wood.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring only if soil tests indicate deficiency.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 inch mulch ring to conserve moisture and protect roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Avoid chronically wet soils and allow room for mature canopy; monitor for typical elm insects.

Why Choose Princeton American Elm?

• Disease Tolerance: Selected for strong performance against Dutch elm disease.
• Historic Form: Restores the classic American elm streetscape look.
• Urban Toughness: Handles heat, wind, and city conditions.
• Rapid Canopy Build: Vigorous growth delivers shade sooner.
• Long-Term Value: Durable structure enhances property and comfort for decades.

Plant in full sun with room to develop the canopy, water deeply during establishment, and shape early for a long-lived, well-structured street or lawn tree.