Ulmus glabra Seeds | Wych Elm
LATIN NAME: Ulmus glabra
COMMON NAME: Wych Elm
Plant Profile
Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra) is a deciduous tree in the elm family. Young bark is smooth and grey, becoming ridged, grey-brown bark with the age. It stands cold well, and it likes sun or part shade, and deep, moist, well-drained soil. Gardeners value it precisely for this blend of qualities.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the elm family, Ulmus glabra is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Wind-dispersed samaras of wych elm give it a recognised place in research on cold-climate woodland trees of elm family, and species appears in studies of early flowering and seed dispersal. From a research perspective, species of this kind are valuable material for work on propagation and on the selection of uniform lines.
Uses & Benefits
Wych Elm brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. In park, woodland and large garden, wych elm flutters winged seeds through spring air. Broad crown gives deep shade and shelter for birds, and timber has served boat-building, furniture and joinery for generations. It thrives in deep, moist, well-drained, sunny or lightly shaded ground. Once settled, it thrives on neglect more than on fussing.
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
Seed is the natural starting point for Wych Elm, and the process is uncomplicated. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in partial shade. When the young plants are big enough to handle, space them into pots or a nursery row and let them size up before their final move.
Our Take
As a deciduous tree, it settles into a routine quickly once established. Given the right start, Wych Elm is a long-term garden companion. Once the young plants are away, there is little left to do but watch them grow.
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