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Native Plant Alternatives to Ulmus pumila (Siberian Elm)

Native Plants, Invasive Plants, Ulmus pumila, Siberian Elm, Dwarf Elm

Ulmus pumila, commonly known as the Siberian elm or Asian elm, is considered invasive in many parts of the United States. This tree is native to northern and eastern Asia but was introduced to North America in the early 20th century as a landscaping tree and for its potential in windbreaks.

It is highly adaptable and can grow in a variety of environmental conditions, including dry soils and areas of drought, which has led to its spread in many parts of the U.S., especially in the Midwest and Western states. The Siberian elm reproduces prolifically through wind-dispersed seeds, which contributes to its invasive nature.

Its tendency to aggressively colonize disturbed lands, outcompete native plants, and alter habitats has made it a concern in natural areas. It is especially problematic in grassland and desert ecosystems, where it can disrupt native species dynamics and reduce biodiversity.

Siberian elm is listed in the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.

According to the U.S Forest Service, Invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of U.S. endangered and threatened species and 18% of U.S. endangered or threatened species. Invasive species compete directly with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and space. They displace and alter native plant communities, degrade wildlife habitat and water quality, and potentially lead to increased soil erosion.

The federal government has estimated that nearly 25 percent of the 20,000 plant species native to North America are at risk of extinction, many of these through habitat loss. You can help reverse this trend by planting great native plants in your garden.

A plant is considered native if it occurs naturally in a particular region or ecosystem without human introduction. There are many benefits to growing native plants. First, these plants are better adapted to soils, moisture, and weather than exotic plants that evolved in other parts of the world. They need fewer fertilizers and pesticides or use less water. Second, they are unlikely to escape and become invasive, destroying natural habitats. Third, they support wildlife, providing shelter and food for native birds and insects, while exotic plants do not.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 9
Plant Type Trees
Genus Ulmus
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early, Mid, Late)
Fall
Native Plants United States

U.S. Native Plant Alternatives to Ulmus pumila (Siberian Elm)

Acer rubrum (Red Maple)
Betula nigra (River Birch)
Carpinus caroliniana (American Hornbeam)
Carya ovata (Shagbark Hickory)
Celtis occidentalis (Common Hackberry)
Chionanthus virginicus (Fringe Tree)
Cladrastis kentukea (Yellowwood)
Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda Dogwood)
Cornus florida (Flowering Dogwood)
Diospyros virginiana (American Persimmon)
Gymnocladus dioica (Kentucky Coffeetree)
Liriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree)
Maclura pomifera (Osage Orange)
Nyssa sylvatica (Black Gum)
Ostrya virginiana (American Hop Hornbeam)
Quercus alba (White Oak)
Quercus coccinea (Scarlet Oak)
Quercus imbricaria (Shingle Oak)
Quercus macrocarpa (Bur Oak)
Quercus phellos (Willow Oak)
Quercus rubra (Red Oak)
Sassafras albidum (Sassafras)
Tilia americana (American Basswood)
Ulmus alata (Winged Elm)

 

 

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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 9
Heat Zones 1 - 9
Plant Type Trees
Genus Ulmus
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)
Summer (Early, Mid, Late)
Fall
Native Plants United States
Compare All Ulmus (Elm)
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Ulmus (Elm)
Guides with
United States

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