Ulmus pumila Seeds | Siberian Elm
LATIN NAME: Ulmus pumila
COMMON NAME: Siberian Elm, Dwarf Elm, Chinese Elm
Plant Profile
Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila) is a fast-growing, deciduous tree in the elm family, native to dry regions of the east and the central Asia, while it has been planted widely for shelter and the timber. Established plants reach around Twenty-five metres. The blooms are worked steadily by bees for as long as they are open. For the small amount of care it requires, the return is remarkable.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the elm family, Ulmus pumila is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. The Siberian elm has a real and distinguished place in research. The practical point for growers is that this plant has been observed in gardens for so long that its behaviour holds few surprises.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, Siberian Elm earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. The Siberian elm is a fast-growing, deciduous tree of dry regions, bearing small, oval, toothed leaves and flat, winged seeds in the spring. To raise the Siberian elm, sow seeds in pots of moist, open soil in a bright, cool place, keep them gently watered, and grow little trees on in the sun. In later seasons it demands little more than an appreciative eye.
Slippery elm inner bark is a soothing demulcent powder for throats and digestion, a staple of North American herbalism; the great elms also gave cities their cathedral avenues before Dutch elm disease.
Growing from Seed
Siberian Elm is one of those generous plants that come along well from seed. Use a fine, free-draining seed compost, scatter the seed evenly, cover it lightly and hold it just moist in good light. The seed responds well to a cool, moist stratification period, which helps it break dormancy evenly. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
Siberian Elm repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
Related Reading
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