Wych Elm Ulmus glabra 'Lutescens'
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the Golden Elm is a striking decidient tree known for its attractive foliage and graceful form. In spring, its leaves emerge in a beautiful shade of bright, golden-yellow, offering a brilliant display that catches the eye. As the seasons change, the leaves transform to a lush green, maintaining a hint of their initial golden tone, especially around the margins. The canopy of the Golden Elm is dense and rounded, giving it a full, layered look that provides ample shade. The leaves themselves are oval-shaped with toothed edges, creating a textured effect within the foliage. The overall appearance of the tree is sturdy and robust with a branching pattern that offers visual interest throughout the year. In the cooler months, after the leaves have fallen, the bare branches reveal a smooth grey bark that adds winter interest to the landscape. In early to mid-spring, the Golden Elm may produce inconspicuous flowers before the leaves fully develop, but these are usually not a significant part of its ornamental appeal. The focus remains primarily on its vibrant foliage through the growing season. The tree's aesthetic makes it a standout specimen in gardens and parks, where its color and form can be appreciated to the fullest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ulmaceae
Synonyms
Wych Elm, Scots Elm, Golden Elm
Common names
Ulmus montana 'Lutescens', Ulmus glabra var. lutescens, Ulmus scabra 'Lutescens'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra 'Lutescens') is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no common reports or documented symptoms of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant. As with any plant material, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause adverse reactions, but this is not common for this species.
To pets
The Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra 'Lutescens') is not recognized as toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingesting parts of this plant is unlikely to result in poisoning. However, ingestion of non-food items, including plant matter, can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet ingests a large quantity of plant material, it is always advisable to monitor its condition and consult with a veterinarian if any concerns arise.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
50-60 feet (15-18 meters)
Spread
40-50 feet (12-15 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Shade provision: The large canopy of Wych Elm provides ample shade, making it ideal for parks and large gardens.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its yellow spring foliage that turns green in summer, Wych Elm adds seasonal color and visual interest to landscapes.
- Erosion control: The robust root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and embankments.
- Wildlife habitat: The tree supports various wildlife species, offering food in the form of seeds and a habitat for nesting and shelter.
- Urban tolerance: Wych Elm can adapt to urban environments, coping with pollution and compacted soils.
- Climate resilience: It is relatively resistant to Dutch elm disease, making it a suitable choice in areas affected by this condition.
- Recreational space: Its large size and dense foliage create a welcoming environment for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Woodworking: The wood of the Wych elm is known for its toughness and resistance to splitting, making it suitable for woodworking projects, especially for creating sturdy chairs and other furniture.
- Dye Production: The bark of the Wych elm can be used to produce a reddish-brown dye for textiles or crafts.
- Windbreaks: This tree can be planted in strategic locations to act as a natural windbreak, helping to protect more vulnerable plants and reduce soil erosion.
- Habitat Support: Wych elm trees can offer habitat and food to a variety of birds and mammals, through providing shelter and bearing fruit/seeds.
- Art and Craft Material: Young branches or the trees' bark may be used in art projects or as part of craft materials for creating rustic decorations.
- Canoe Building: Historically, the waterproof qualities of Wych elm bark have been used by indigenous peoples for constructing canoes.
- Beekeeping: Elm trees, including Wych elm, can be beneficial for beekeepers as they provide an early spring source of pollen for bees.
- Soil Improvement: Fallen elm leaves can decompose and enrich the soil with nutrients, improving soil structure and fertility over time.
- Educational Tool: Wych elm can be used in educational settings to teach about native tree species, plant biology, and conservation efforts.
- Carpentry Jigs and Fixtures: The wood's properties make it suitable for creating durable jigs and fixtures in carpentry, which require materials that can withstand repeated use.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Wych Elm is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wych Elm is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength: Ulmus glabra, commonly known as the Wych Elm, is a symbol of strength due to its robust wood and firm structure, embodying resilience and solidity.
- Resilience: The Wych Elm's ability to endure harsh conditions, including strong winds and cold climates, makes it a representation of resilience and perseverance through challenges.
- Dignity: With its grand stature and long lifespan, the Wych Elm is often associated with dignity, reflecting esteem and noble character.
- Interconnectedness: The interweaving branches of the Wych Elm signify interconnectedness, highlighting the relationship between all living things and the importance of community and unity.
- Protection: Historically believed to ward off evil and lightning, the Wych Elm symbolizes protection and safety, offering a sense of security and safeguarding.
WaterThe Wych Elm should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to be moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water this tree once a week with approximately 10-15 gallons of water during its growing season if there is no significant rainfall. During hot and dry spells, increase the watering frequency to twice a week. In winter or cooler months, reduce watering to every two weeks or less, depending on the climate. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
LightWych Elms prefer to be situated in a spot where they receive full sun to partial shade. They thrive with at least 4 hours of direct sunlight a day but will also tolerate light dappled shade. Ideal placement would be in an area with morning sun and afternoon shade or a location that gets consistent but not overly intense light throughout the day. Avoid deep shade as this can lead to reduced vigor and less dense foliage.
TemperatureWych Elms are hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, flourishing in zones 4 through 7. They can tolerate winter temperatures as low as -30 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit and summer highs up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for vigorous growth is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat or cold beyond these ranges may stress the tree.
PruningPruning the Wych Elm is important for removing dead or diseased wood and maintaining a strong, healthy tree structure. It is best pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Thin out any crowded branches and remove lower limbs to raise the canopy if desired. Pruning should typically be done every 3-5 years depending on the growth rate and overall tree health. Always use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Wych Elm requires a fertile, well-draining soil mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically between 5.5 and 7.5. The best soil mix can be achieved by combining loamy soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve fertility and structure. Mulching around the base is beneficial to help retain moisture and protect roots.
RepottingThe Wych Elm, being a large tree, is not commonly repotted but planted directly into the ground. However, if grown in containers, young trees should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingWych Elms are adaptable to a range of humidity conditions and do well in average outdoor humidity levels. They do not have special humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light, ensure large pot, and room to grow.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, space freely.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Wych Elm, or Ulmus glabra 'Lutescens', begins with seed germination, typically occurring in spring after overwintering when the elm seeds fall onto moist soil. The seedlings sprout and enter a juvenile growth phase, developing into saplings characterized by rapid growth and the establishment of a strong root system. As it matures, the tree enters an extended period of vegetative growth, where it reaches reproductive maturity and begins to produce its own seeds after several years. The tree flowers in early spring, with seeds ripening and dispersing by the wind in late spring. Throughout its life, the Wych Elm will experience cycles of leaf production in the spring followed by autumn senescence where leaves turn yellow before falling. With proper conditions and barring disease, such as Dutch elm disease, the Wych Elm can live for over a hundred years, eventually reaching senescence and dying, completing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
The Wych Elm 'Lutescens' is typically propagated from hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is during the plant's dormant season, usually in late fall to midwinter. Cuttings should be about 6 to 9 inches (15 to 23 cm) long, taken from healthy, disease-free branches. These cuttings can be planted in well-drained soil and should be kept consistently moist until they root. After a period of a few weeks to months, depending on the conditions, roots will begin to establish, and new growth will indicate successful propagation.
