Skip to content

Slippery Elm

Ulmus Rubra

Design with this plant

Overview

Ulmus rubra, commonly known as Slippery Elm, is a deciduous tree noted for its heart-shaped, serrated leaves, which span up to 8 inches wide. Nurturing shade and ornamental interest, it reaches heights of 40–60 feet with a canopy spread up to 40 feet. Valued for its red-tinged inner bark and vase-shaped growth, it thrives in zones 4-9, preferring moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.

Sun FullWater MediumZones 3–9Climate Temperate
Slippery Elm (Ulmus Rubra) — commonly known as Slippery Elm

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Medium
USDA zones
3–9

Shape & size

Mature height
40–60 Ft.
Mature width
30–50 Ft.

Classification

Family
Ulmaceae
Climate
Temperate

See full data, regional cultivation notes, full-resolution photos, and design tools. Build a client presentation around this plant.

Start your 14-day trial

Photos (28)

Slippery Elm (Ulmus Rubra) — green and red flowers in the garden
Slippery Elm (Ulmus Rubra) — tree with green and red blooms
Slippery Elm (Ulmus Rubra) — tree for full
Slippery Elm (Ulmus Rubra) — commonly known as Slippery Elm; nurturing shade and ornamental interest, it reaches heights of 40‚Äì60 feet with a canopy spread

Related plants