Lacebark Elm

Scientific Nomenclature: Ulmus parvifolia

Common Names: lacebark elm, drake elm, Chinese elm

Mature Height: 40–60 feet

Mature Spread: 50–60 feet

Growth Rate: Rapid

Attracts Wildlife: Birds

Messiness: Leaves drop in autumn. Flattened, papery-winged samaras mature and drop in autumn as well. Bark exfoliates in an irregular pattern, exposing mottled, lighter bark below.

Shape: Vase/Round

Native to Kentucky: No

Preferred Soils: The lacebark elm is adaptable regarding soil types, but it always prefers well-drained soil. It tolerates clay, loam or sand and has no natural preference over acidic (<6.0pH), neutral (6.0–8.0pH) or alkaline (>8.0pH) soils. It also tolerates occasionally moist or occasionally dry spots.

Screening: Not used for screening or privacy plantings. Recommended as a shade tree or for use as a street tree.

Drought Tolerance: Is relatively drought tolerant.

Coniferous or Deciduous: Deciduous

Pruning: Does not typically require any pruning other than removing deadwood or damaged limbs. Prune lacebark elms during late dormancy, typically in late February or March.

Following being planted as a sapling, over 20 years one lacebark elm will:

• Sequester ~2,004 pounds of CO2.
• Reduce stormwater runoff by 392 gallons.