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| 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
USDA Hardiness Zone: 3
Additional Comments:
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