 | Slippery Elm, Red Elm, Gray Elm, Soft Elm Ulmus rubra Ulmaceae Slippery Elm is easily confused with American Elm. Although it grows in about the same area of north east, north central and central Texas, it is not nearly as prevalent and doesn't occupy as much territory. It grows on deep moist soils of riverbanks and shaded hillsides and does equally well in slightly acid to alkaline soils. Slippery Elm reaches an average height of 75 feet, with spreading branches and a broad open canopy. The leaves are dark green and very rough above. The common name comes from the shiny, white inner bark that was chewed by the pioneers to quench thirst. It can also be made into a flour. Plant Habit or Use: large tree Exposure: sun partial sun Flower Color: reddish Blooming Period: spring Fruit Characteristics: small seed surrounded by wing Height: to 75 ft. Width: to 80 ft. Plant Character: deciduous Heat Tolerance: high Water Requirements: high medium Soil Requirements: adaptable Additional Comments:
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