Allee Elm

Allee Elm (Ulmus parvifolia 'Emer II')

Allee Elm is a durable Chinese elm selection with a graceful, upright vase shape, glossy dark green leaves, and striking mottled bark that exfoliates in patches. It casts broad, cooling shade and develops yellow to orange fall tones, performing reliably in streetscapes and large landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Attractive, cinnamon to gray patchwork bark provides four-season interest, while strong Dutch elm disease tolerance and urban resilience echo the classic elm look with modern durability.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best canopy density and trunk character.
• Soil: Adaptable to most well drained soils; prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment, then deep soak during extended drought.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: Typically 50 to 60 ft tall and 35 to 45 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Upright vase form and exfoliating bark create an architectural specimen.
• Street Tree: Handles heat, reflected light, and compacted soils better than many trees.
• 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, low-input canopy for open greens.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water weekly for the first 2 to 3 years; transition to occasional deep watering in dry spells.
• Pruning: Train early for a strong central leader and good 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; monitor for typical elm insects and manage as needed.

Why Choose Allee Elm?

• Disease Tolerance: Strong resistance to Dutch elm disease and good overall pest performance.
• Urban Toughness: Thrives in heat, wind, and city conditions.
• Year-Round Interest: Exfoliating bark and seasonal foliage color.
• Classic Elm Silhouette: Iconic vase form with arching limbs.
• Fast Establishment: Builds a cooling canopy with routine early care.

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