American elm is a large tree with a distinctive vase-shaped crown and arching branches. Dutch elm disease has killed most mature trees since the mid-1900s, but resistant selections and young trees still occur.
Habitat and range
In Maryland, American elm grew in floodplains, rich bottomlands, and was widely planted along streets. Surviving trees and disease-resistant cultivars are found in parks, campuses, and moist woods.
Uses and significance
The wood was used for furniture, crates, and cooperage. American elm was the classic street tree of the eastern U.S.; breeding programs continue to develop disease-resistant varieties for restoration and planting.